At a major international conference in New York, France and Saudi Arabia released a joint declaration demanding an immediate end to the war in Gaza and presenting a global roadmap for peace. The "New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine" was backed by key international partners including Egypt, Brazil, Japan, Ireland, and the European Union.

The declaration calls for a two-state solution based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as the capital of a future Palestinian state. It includes security guarantees for both Israel and Palestine and outlines a phased ceasefire agreement brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. The plan demands the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of all hostages.

To ensure stability, the declaration proposes that Gaza and the West Bank be reunited under the Palestinian Authority. Hamas is called upon to step down and disarm. A UN-led stabilization mission will help secure the region during the transition and protect civilians.

The international community pledged support for Gaza's reconstruction through a special trust fund. A conference in Cairo will be held to coordinate rebuilding efforts. The declaration supports President Mahmoud Abbas's plans for democratic reforms and new elections.

Israel was urged to stop settlement expansion and settler violence. Signatories warned that unilateral actions could destroy any remaining hopes for peace. The declaration also suggested forming a regional security framework similar to ASEAN and OSCE.

Organizers vowed to present progress at the UN General Assembly in September, calling this a "historic opportunity" to finally bring peace.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2609938/middle-east