Guterres: Palestinian Statehood is a Right, Not a Bargaining Chip, in Pursuit of Two-State Solution

During a speech at the United Nations, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated the organization’s commitment to the two-state solution as the means to end the long-standing Israel-Gaza conflict. Guterres declared that Palestinian statehood is a right, not something to be earned or withheld. He pointed out the ongoing failure of dialogue and the persistent violation of resolutions. The Secretary-General detailed the UN’s established position supporting a two-state framework. This involves two independent, sovereign, and democratic states – Israel and Palestine – coexisting in peace and security within secure and recognized borders based on the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem serving as a shared capital, consistent with international law and relevant agreements. He warned that denying Palestinian statehood would embolden extremists. Furthermore, Guterres called for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unhindered humanitarian aid access, while condemning the October 7th attacks by Hamas, the taking of hostages, the collective punishment of Palestinians, and ethnic cleansing.