Full Breakdown
International Conference on the Palestinian Cause: A Step Towards Peace
9/2/2025, 11:57:37 AM
Overview of the Conference
The High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Palestinian Cause and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution took place from July 28-30, 2025, at the United Nations headquarters. Co-chaired by His Excellency President Emmanuel Macron of France and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia, the conference aimed to address the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Current Humanitarian Crisis
During the conference, Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, exacerbated by a two-year war waged by Israel. Over two million individuals, primarily women and children, are affected by starvation and violence. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for immediate humanitarian aid and a ceasefire, stating that the normalization of starvation as a method of warfare is unacceptable.
Mediation Efforts and International Support
The State of Qatar, in collaboration with Egypt and the United States, has been actively involved in mediation efforts to secure a ceasefire and facilitate humanitarian aid. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) praised these efforts, affirming the need for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza. The GCC reiterated its support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Key Proposals and Principles
The conference's third working group, co-chaired by Qatar, Canada, and Mexico, focused on "Peace Narratives." It aimed to promote positive narratives that reject violence and incitement, fostering an environment conducive to peace. The Prime Minister of Qatar reaffirmed the commitment to the two-state solution as the only viable option for resolving the conflict and achieving lasting peace.
Official Statements and Responses
The conference concluded with a call for a unified international stance against actions that obstruct negotiations for peace. Qatar welcomed the recognition of the State of Palestine by various countries and emphasized the importance of translating international support into tangible actions. The GCC also condemned Israel's plans to transfer authority over the Ibrahimi Mosque and its settlement activities in the West Bank, viewing these as serious violations of international law.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimistic tone of the conference, critics argue that the ongoing violence and settlement expansions undermine the peace process. The GCC's condemnation of Israeli actions reflects a broader concern among Arab states regarding the Israeli occupation and its implications for regional stability.
What's Next
The international community is urged to create conditions for a permanent and just solution to the Palestinian issue. The conference is seen as a potential turning point, with hopes for practical steps towards implementing the two-state solution and achieving peace in the region.
Verbatim Quotes
- “What future can be built upon the corpses of the starving queues?” — HE the Prime Minister of Qatar
- “The calamities caused by the war and its political failure underscore the necessity of achieving a just and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian cause.” — HE the Prime Minister of Qatar
- “We hope that this conference will serve as a turning point leading to tangible commitments that go beyond statements and positions, and pave the way for practical steps toward implementing the two-state solution, in a way that ensures a just, comprehensive, and lasting resolution to the conflict, and contributes to the establishment of peace, security, and stability across the entire region.” — HE the Prime Minister of Qatar
