“Only a two-State solution can deliver sustainable peace” UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the League of Arab States Summit

17 May 2025

Baghdad – Iraq

UN Secretary-General’s remarks at the League of Arab States Summit

As salaam alaikum.

Your Excellency President Rashid, thank you for your invitation and your hospitality.

Your Highnesses, your Excellencies,

Secretary-General Aboul Gheit,

Ladies and Gentlemen

I am honoured to be with you to further strengthen our partnership with the League of Arab States.

The region and the world face trials and tests on all fronts.

Starting with Gaza.

Nothing justifies the atrocious October 7 terror attacks by Hamas.

And nothing justifies the collective punishment of the Palestinian people.

We need a permanent ceasefire, now.

The unconditional release of all hostages, now.

And the free flow of humanitarian aid ending the blockade, now.

I am alarmed by reported plans by Israel to expand ground operations and more.

And I emphasize that the United Nations will not participate in any so-called aid operation that does not adhere to international law and the humanitarian principles of humanity, impartiality, independence and neutrality.

And I reiterate my appeal for the urgent and full support of UNRWA’s work, including financial support.

We reject the repeated displacement of the Gaza population – and we obviously reject any question of forced displacement outside of Gaza.

We must also stay focused on the terrible situation in the occupied West Bank.

Let’s be clear:

Annexation is illegal.  Settlements are illegal.

Only a two-State solution can deliver sustainable peace:

Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security, with Jerusalem as the capital of both states, in line with UN resolutions, international law, and previous agreements.

The high-level conference in June, co-chaired by France and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is an important opportunity.

The world, the region – and, most of all, the people of Palestine and Israel — cannot afford to watch the two-State solution disappear before our eyes.

That goal has never been more imperative – but unfortunately it also looks more distant.

The international community has an enormous responsibility in this decisive moment.

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Highnesses, Excellencies,

Despite the enormous challenges, let us draw lessons and hope from here in Baghdad.

Working in unity and solidarity, we can help resolve conflicts and build a future of peace and prosperity.

That is the shared goal of the League of Arab States and the United Nations – and I look forward to continue to deepen our partnership together.

Shukran.

This is an excerpt related to the question of Palestine. Read the complete statement here.

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