The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, emphasized the need for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict during talks with Israeli and Palestinian diplomats. Borrell criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of calls for a Palestinian state after the recent conflict in Gaza, labeling it “unacceptable.”
Borrell stressed that peace cannot be achieved solely through military means and questioned Israel’s alternative solutions, expressing concern about the potential harm to Palestinians. The recent conflict, triggered by a surprise Hamas attack on Israel, has heightened tensions in the region, prompting EU officials to call for renewed efforts to address the long-standing conflict.
The EU, consisting of 27 member states, engaged in discussions with Israel’s foreign minister, Israel Katz, and separately with the Palestinian Authority’s top diplomat, Riyad Al-Maliki. The foreign ministers of Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia also participated in talks with EU ministers.
Borrell presented a “comprehensive approach” to finding a lasting peace, proposing an international conference. Despite potential disagreements within the EU, Borrell insisted that a two-state solution should be imposed from outside to achieve enduring peace.
However, Israel expressed displeasure with Borrell’s earlier comments accusing the country of “creating” and “financing” Hamas to undermine the possibility of a Palestinian state. The EU’s struggle to establish a united stance on the conflict, with varying opinions among member states, remains a challenge.
EU officials outlined conditions for the post-war period in Gaza, including no long-term Israeli occupation, an end to Hamas rule, and a role for the Palestinian Authority in governing the territory. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with concerns growing about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Ireland’s foreign minister, Micheal Martin, expressed dismay over the reports of dire conditions in Gaza and emphasized the need for urgent attention to address the aftermath of the conflict. The EU remains committed to fostering a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, despite the challenges posed by differing opinions among member states.
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