OSLO, January 15, 2025 (WAFA) – The third meeting of the international coalition to support the two-state solution began today, Wednesday, in Oslo, Norway, with the participation of Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa.
The conference witnessed broad international attendance, including Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process Tor Wennesland, UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini, and representatives from over 80 countries and international organizations.
The meeting aims to discuss ways to enhance humanitarian support for Palestinians, particularly amid the dire conditions in Gaza, and to explore possible measures to revive negotiations between Palestinians and Israelis. Participants will also address increasing support for UNRWA, a key provider of essential services to Palestinian refugees.
This marks the third session of the global coalition for the implementation of the two-state solution, established last September during the UN General Assembly meetings in New York.
Prime Minister Mustafa stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and called for unhindered humanitarian aid access. He emphasized that no authority other than the Palestinian Authority should govern Gaza.
He urged the international community to recognize the State of Palestine, stating, "Recognition of Palestine is a step toward achieving a just and lasting peace. It underscores the importance of the two-state solution along internationally recognized borders and the necessity of respecting security and justice."
Mustafa criticized Israeli policies undermining the two-state solution, including settlement expansion and restrictions on international organizations, particularly UNRWA.
He condemned recent Israeli legislation targeting UNRWA, stating such actions jeopardize Palestinian rights, dismantle the two-state framework, and crush hopes for peace.
"The Palestinian people have endured decades of aggression. For more than 18 months, Gaza has faced genocidal conditions. Since the Oslo Accords, Israeli governments have persistently undermined peace efforts, disregarding international laws and obligations," he said.
UNRWA Commissioner-General Philippe Lazzarini warned of severe consequences from recent Israeli legislation set to curtail UNRWA's operations in Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem. "These policies violate international law and United Nations resolutions," Lazzarini said.
He highlighted the risks to UNRWA's staff and operations, particularly in Gaza, where restrictions could intensify humanitarian crises. Lazzarini underscored UNRWA's critical role in providing education, healthcare, and other essential services, warning that its collapse would exacerbate suffering and destabilize the region.
"Education holds immense value for Palestinians. Failing to sustain these services would sacrifice future generations and hinder progress toward a viable Palestinian state," Lazzarini added.
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