A recent United Nations conference, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, aimed at establishing a framework for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians has been postponed, reportedly due to Israel’s military actions against Iran, according to two informed sources.
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A Western diplomatic source in Saudi Arabia indicated that the conference’s delay stemmed in part from these developments, with some delegations from the Middle East either unable or unwilling to attend. As one diplomatic expert noted, “In times of escalating conflict, flexibility and understanding are often tested.”
Earlier this week, Ireland received a diplomatic cable from the United States advising against participation in the upcoming conference. It appears this message was disseminated to all countries involved in the gathering.
Nonetheless, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris reaffirmed Ireland’s commitment to attending the conference during an interview on RTÉ’s News at One. He stated, “Let me be clear: Ireland will be present and actively participating in the two-state conference at the UN. While the United States has every right to express its foreign policy views, Ireland, too, has its own policy.”
Mr. Harris further remarked, “It is critical to acknowledge the situation unfolding in Gaza as nothing less than genocide. We are witnessing children on the brink of starvation, and the path toward a viable two-state solution is becoming more distant each day. Now is not the moment for diplomatic cables; now is the time for leadership—leadership that ensures humanitarian aid reaches those in need.”
He emphasized the strong sentiment among the Irish people regarding the need to halt Israel’s attacks on Gaza, asserting that “the Irish Government firmly believes we have a duty to convey our stance on foreign policy.” Harris added, “Countries worldwide are increasingly horrified at the images and reports emerging from the region.”
Taoiseach Micheál Martin was also set to travel to New York to participate in the meeting before its postponement. The conference was intended to focus on establishing a Palestinian state in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem, alongside Israel.
In a recent cable, the U.S. expressed concern that nations supporting a Palestinian state through actions perceived as anti-Israel, including sanctions and boycotts, would be acting contrary to American interests and potentially face diplomatic repercussions. As outlined in the cable, “The United States opposes any implied support for punitive measures against Israel, fearing it would undermine our diplomatic initiatives to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.”
In times of crisis, it is crucial to navigate the complexities of international relations with empathy and foresight. To quote a renowned diplomat, “In the end, peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it’s a shared dream that requires courage and commitment.”
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
