New York: A significant international conference, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, has concluded in New York City, resulting in the issuance of the New York Declaration. This declaration emphasizes the need for concrete, time-bound steps towards resolving the Palestinian issue and implementing a two-state solution.
According to Union of OIC News Agencies, the declaration highlighted the necessity for collective action to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza and ensure Israel’s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, transferring control to the Palestinian Authority. The declaration underscores that only a political solution can achieve peace and security, and emphasizes that ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the two-state solution is crucial for fulfilling legitimate aspirations in accordance with international law.
The declaration also commits to mobilizing political and financial support for the Palestinian Authority to strengthen its institutional capacities. It calls for the removal of restrictions on movement and access, the immediate release of withheld Palestinian tax revenues, and the establishment of a new framework for the transfer of clearance revenues. This framework aims to enable full Palestinian control over the tax system and integrate Palestine into the international monetary and financial system, ensuring sustainable, long-term banking relations.
Furthermore, the declaration insists on preserving the legal and historical status quo at Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. It calls for adopting restrictive measures against violent extremist settlers and entities supporting illegal settlements, in accordance with international law.
The conference brought together leaders and representatives from nations, including Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, Norway, Qatar, Senegal, Spain, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and the League of Arab States. Their collective agreement underlines the urgency of ending the war in Gaza, facilitating humanitarian assistance, and supporting the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip through an upcoming conference in Cairo.
The declaration’s comprehensive framework outlines steps for achieving a sovereign Palestinian state alongside Israel, ensuring peace and stability in the region. It also emphasizes the importance of addressing humanitarian needs, fostering economic development, and supporting governance and security under the Palestinian Authority.
The New York Declaration represents a unified international effort to address the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict, committing to a future of peace, security, and regional integration.