Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: Reuters

A major international meeting was held at the United Nations in New York this week, where Arab countries, along with European nations, came together to ask Hamas to step down from power in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority. The goal is to bring an end to the long and painful war in the region and move forward with peace talks for a two-state solution—one where both Israel and Palestine exist side by side.

The meeting ended with a seven-page declaration supported by 17 countries, the European Union, and the Arab League. This document clearly stated that the only way to end the ongoing war in Gaza is for Hamas to stop ruling the area and give up its weapons under the guidance and support of international partners.

What the Declaration Said

The official statement said:

“To end the war in Gaza, Hamas must give up its control over Gaza and surrender its weapons to the Palestinian Authority. This should happen with the support and involvement of the international community, to help establish a sovereign and independent Palestinian State.”

The declaration was seen as a major step forward. For the first time, many Arab and Middle Eastern countries openly condemned Hamas, criticized its violent attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and supported the idea that Hamas should no longer be involved in running Palestinian territories.

Background of the Conflict

The latest war in Gaza began after a brutal attack by Hamas on Israel in October 2023. In that attack, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed. In response, Israel launched a strong military operation in Gaza, which has been ongoing for more than 21 months now. Thousands of Palestinian civilians have died, homes have been destroyed, and most of Gaza’s infrastructure has been wiped out. Schools, hospitals, roads, and houses have been badly damaged or reduced to rubble.

This war has caused unimaginable pain for the people living in Gaza. The world has watched as families were broken, children were left homeless, and food and medicine became difficult to find.

Palestinian Authority Wants Control Back

On Monday, a day before the declaration was released, the Palestinian delegation at the United Nations made a strong request. They asked both Israel and Hamas to leave Gaza, so the Palestinian Authority could come in and take over the administration of the territory. They aim to govern Gaza peacefully and rebuild what has been destroyed.

France Calls Declaration ‘Historic’

The conference was led by France and Saudi Arabia, and France’s Foreign Minister said this declaration is “historic and unprecedented.” He said that it’s the first time Arab nations have united to:

• Condemn the actions of Hamas
• Call for Hamas to disarm
• Demand that Hamas no longer take part in governing Palestinians
• Express their interest in normalizing ties with Israel in the future

This kind of unified voice from Arab nations is seen as a major turning point.

Western Countries Also Support Peace Plan

Other countries like Britain, Canada, and several European nations also signed the declaration. These countries agreed with the idea of bringing foreign peacekeeping forces to Gaza once the war ends. These forces could help keep the area safe, ensure the rebuilding process, and support the return to normal life.

However, Israel and the United States did not participate in this meeting.

Britain May Recognize Palestine in September

During the conference, the British Foreign Secretary said that the United Kingdom may officially recognize Palestine as a country in September. But this will only happen if Israel takes steps to stop the war in Gaza and allow humanitarian aid into the region.

Similarly, France’s President recently stated that France could also announce its recognition of a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September.

Challenges in Creating a Two-State Solution

For years, the idea of two countries—Israel and Palestine—living side by side in peace has been supported by the majority of nations around the world. But the current war, the building of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, and statements from Israeli officials about annexing more land have made many people worry. Some now fear that creating a future Palestinian state may no longer be possible because the land needed for that state may be disappearing.

Gaza’s Long Nightmare

This war in Gaza has lasted more than 21 months. According to reports, tens of thousands of Palestinians have died, including many women and children. Gaza’s cities are in ruins. There is a shortage of clean water, electricity, hospitals, and schools. Most families have lost their homes, and aid is struggling to reach those in need.

At the same UN meeting, the Secretary-General of the United Nations warned that peace is now harder to achieve than ever before. He said the idea of a two-state solution is growing more distant each day.

More Countries Willing to Recognize Palestine

In a statement released on Tuesday, 15 Western nations, including France and Spain, said they still strongly support the two-state solution. Out of those 15, nine countries that have not yet recognized Palestine said they are now considering doing so. These countries include:

• Andorra
• Australia
• Canada
• Finland
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• New Zealand
• Portugal
• San Marino

This shows that international support for Palestinian statehood is increasing.

What Happens Next?

The future of Gaza and Palestine depends on what happens in the coming months. If Hamas steps down, if Israel agrees to a ceasefire, and if international countries support the rebuilding of Gaza, then peace may finally have a chance.

But these are not easy steps. There is deep mistrust, pain, and history behind this conflict. Yet, this new declaration by Arab countries and Europe may be the start of a new path—one that leads to peace, rebuilding, and hope for Palestinians and Israelis alike.

The international community is calling for peace in Gaza. With strong voices from Arab nations, European allies, and growing support from other countries, the demand is clear—end the war, support a two-state solution, and give Palestinians a chance to live in freedom and dignity. For the millions of children, families, and communities affected by this war, these calls offer a glimpse of hope that peace might be possible.