Secretary-General Urges Israel, Palestine to Realize Two-State Solution Promise, in Message for International Day of Solidarity with Palestinian People

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message for the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, observed on 29 November:

This year’s International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People takes place at a time of turmoil, trouble and torment.  The decades-long Palestinian struggle for self-determination, independence and a life of dignity faces numerous obstacles, including:  continued military occupation of Palestinian territory; ongoing violence and incitement; continued settlement construction and expansion; deep uncertainties about the peace process; and deteriorating humanitarian and economic conditions, particularly in Gaza.

The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is providing indispensable services and needs our full support.

I urge Israel, Palestine and all others with influence to restore the promise and viability of the two-State solution premised on two States living side by side in peace, harmony and within secure and recognized borders, with Jerusalem as the capital of both.

Let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rights of the Palestinian people and to building a future of peace, justice, security and dignity for Palestinians and Israelis alike.