Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly has firmly asserted that lasting peace in the Middle East can only come from a political resolution that ends the occupation and establishes a Palestinian state based on the borders prior to the 1967 war, with East Jerusalem recognized as its capital. This statement was made during a summit focused on Palestine and the two-state solution, which was co-hosted by the United Kingdom, France, and Canada at the UN General Assembly.
Confronting Unprecedented Challenges
While representing President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi at the UN, Prime Minister Madbouly highlighted the significant threats facing the viability of the two-state solution. He pointed out the rapid expansion of Israeli settlements, ongoing land confiscations, and rising violence from settlers in the West Bank. Moreover, Madbouly expressed concern over the attempts to alter the historical and legal status of East Jerusalem, which is critical to any peace framework. He also called attention to the prevailing conditions in the Gaza Strip, where Israeli control hampers humanitarian aid efforts, intensifying the already dire situation.
Madbouly welcomed the proactive steps taken by the UK, France, Canada, and others to combat illegal settlements in Palestinian territories. He urged these and other nations to implement tangible actions that would thwart further annexation, settlement expansion, and the forced displacement of Palestinians. Addressing international partners, he emphasized that collective actions are crucial to safeguarding the rights of the Palestinian people and ensuring a viable future for peace negotiations.
Strengthening the Palestinian Authority
The Prime Minister underscored the critical importance of supporting the Palestinian Authority as a means to ensure its effectiveness in managing responsibilities. Such support is essential for restoring its governance in Gaza and maintaining cohesion across Palestinian territories and institutions. Through this approach, Madbouly aims to foster stability and facilitate a unified Palestinian front in negotiations.
Furthermore, Egypt reaffirmed its commitment to implementing US President Donald Trump’s plan in alignment with UN Security Council Resolution 2803. Key provisions of this plan involve upholding a ceasefire, easing humanitarian aid delivery, advocating for Israeli withdrawal, regulating the flow of arms, deploying an international stabilization force, and empowering the National Committee for Gaza’s administration as well as initiating reconstruction efforts.
Standing Firm Against Displacement and Annexation
Madbouly reiterated Egypt’s strong opposition to any moves that would annex Palestinian land or displace its populace. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining the territorial integrity and administrative unity of the Palestinian regions. The Prime Minister concluded by reaffirming Egypt’s ongoing commitment to collaborating with various international partners, all with the goal of protecting the viability of the two-state solution and achieving enduring peace in the region.
Through these efforts, Egypt seeks to bolster diplomatic initiatives that can facilitate a more hopeful future for both Palestinians and Israelis, reiterating the idea that true stability can only be reached through shared recognition and mutual respect for one another’s rights and aspirations.