ADDIS ABABA – In a move that resonates with hope, the African Union (AU) has thrown its support behind France’s proposal for a two-state solution to resolve the enduring Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This initiative, many believe, might just breathe fresh air into the stagnant waters of Gaza and the West Bank.

The tension in this region has been a festering wound. French President Emmanuel Macron recently voiced his sorrow over the unyielding strife in Gaza, lamenting the dire humanitarian circumstances. It’s a sobering situation, one that keeps countless families in perpetual mourning, their grief echoing as the conflict hits the unsettling mark of its third year.

Speaking with conviction, Mohamed Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, remarked that France’s proposal is in perfect harmony with the AU’s long-standing vision of a two-state solution. This vision was ardently reaffirmed in the AU’s 8th ordinary session in February 2025.

The session was not merely a formality, but a powerful reminder of the continent’s steadfast adherence to the rights of the Palestinian people. It underscored their right to self-determination, to a homeland they could claim with pride.

Youssouf described the endorsement as a “significant step” toward peace, a beacon in the turbulent sea of Middle Eastern politics. “A just, lasting, and comprehensive resolution,” he said, “aligns with international law and the resolutions of the United Nations.” These are not mere words but a call to action that resonates deeply across the globe.

The African Union’s support isn’t an isolated act. It is part of a broader movement urging for two states where Israel and Palestine coexist in peace and shared security. Youssouf, with heartfelt sincerity, encouraged nations worldwide to rally behind the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.

Anecdotes from numerous Africans highlight a shared sentiment: the pain of watching innocent civilians, amidst relentless bombardments, bear the brunt of a conflict they did not start. Yet, as history teaches us, where there is despair, there is also resilience.

Global voices are rising, refusing to fall silent. Palestinian solidarity has been echoed far and wide, from the Arab League to the United Kingdom, each urging an immediate ceasefire and recognition of Palestinian sovereignty. As if to punctuate this collective voice, the issue will stand center stage at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025.

Reflecting on the human aspect of these political dynamics, one might ponder: What does peace mean for the child in Gaza or the mother in Tel Aviv? And perhaps, in seeking answers, we find our common humanity.