UN General Assembly Backs Two-State Solution in Landmark Vote

The United Nations General Assembly has overwhelmingly supported a new roadmap aimed at achieving a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine. A total of 142 countries voted in favor of the “New York Declaration,” while just 10 including Israel and the United States voted against, and 12 countries abstained from voting.

The declaration, crafted after an international conference led by France and Saudi Arabia, proposes immediate steps for peace. These include an urgent ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and a transition toward the creation of a sovereign and independent Palestinian state. The document also calls for the disarmament of Hamas and its removal from governing Gaza, while supporting collective security arrangements for both Israelis and Palestinians.

While supporters of the declaration view it as an important opportunity to restart stalled negotiations and address a long-standing conflict, Israel and its close ally, the United States, raised concerns. Israeli officials described the declaration as “one-sided,” suggesting that it could empower groups like Hamas rather than pave a genuine path to peace. Israel’s representative called the move “a hollow gesture that weakens the Assembly’s credibility” and emphasized ongoing security needs following recent attacks.

On the Palestinian side, leaders welcomed the broad international backing of an actionable peace strategy, urging the world community to help end the occupation and realize the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. The declaration comes at a tense time, amid continuing violence in Gaza and expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank.

Diplomats from France and Saudi Arabia, who co-chaired the conference, highlighted that the plan encourages not only the establishment of a Palestinian state but also normalization of relations between Israel and Arab nations, as well as shared regional security guarantees. However, the voting reflects persistent divisions among world powers over how to move forward.

The UN’s latest endorsement is intended as a clear message that most countries support a negotiated settlement and peaceful coexistence between Israel and its Arab and Muslim neighbors. Despite disagreements, there remains hope that diplomatic efforts will help secure peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.