Representatives from various nations met in Madrid to address the crisis in the Middle East and reaffirm their commitment to the two-State solution as the path to peace. The gathering included participants from the League of Arab States, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and other key countries. They condemned the violence and terrorism affecting Palestinians and Israelis and emphasized the urgent need for the two-State solution.
The joint statement issued after the meeting highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis unfolding since October 7, 2023, and called on all parties and UN members to support a broader meeting on the situation in Gaza and the implementation of the two-State solution. The participants condemned unilateral measures, settlements, forced displacement, and extremism, which have obstructed progress toward peace, and stressed the importance of adhering to UN Security Council Resolutions and international law.
The participants expressed their support for ongoing mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, while rejecting actions that hinder these efforts. They called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the restoration of full control of the Palestinian Authority over Gaza and its borders. Urgent unconditioned humanitarian assistance was emphasized, and compliance with International Humanitarian Law and the orders of the International Court of Justice was urged.
The statement also addressed the escalating situation in the West Bank, calling for an immediate halt to military attacks, settlement activities, and land confiscation. It stressed the importance of maintaining the legal and historical status quo at Jerusalem’s holy sites and recognized the key role of the Hashemite Custodianship. The participants emphasized the need for universal recognition of the State of Palestine and its admission as a full member of the United Nations.
In conclusion, the participants in the Madrid gathering reiterated their commitment to the two-State solution as the path to enduring peace in the Middle East. They condemned violence and terrorism affecting both Palestinians and Israelis and called for immediate action to implement the two-State solution. The joint statement issued after the meeting emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian assistance, compliance with international law, and support for ongoing mediation efforts. The participants also addressed the escalating situation in the West Bank and stressed the importance of mutual recognition of Israel and Palestine for achieving peace.
