The 19 nations and institutions co-chairing the UN-led two-state solution Conference have voiced deep alarm over surging regional hostilities, which have compelled the suspension of the Conference’s proceedings.
In a statement released on Tuesday, June 17, the group — which includes the European Union and the Arab League — cited growing insecurity, particularly the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, as a major setback to ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Palestinian question.
Despite the conference’s pause, the co-chairs reaffirmed their collective commitment to the principles of international law, the sovereignty of states, and the pursuit of peace and dignity for all peoples in the region. They emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate tensions and reiterated their endorsement of the two-state solution as the only viable path toward ending the war in Gaza and achieving a durable, just resolution for Palestinians and Israelis alike.
The statement also confirmed that the broader work of the conference would press ahead, with technical and diplomatic roundtables set to reconvene soon. These engagements aim to coordinate international commitments and bolster support for a peaceful settlement. Plans are underway to reschedule the conference’s high-level segment, which had been postponed, as announced by French President Emmanuel Macron last week.
Co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, and supported by a diverse coalition including the UK, Japan, Brazil, and the EU, the conference stands as a critical platform for advancing a collective vision for Middle East peace.
