UN Chief Advocates for Palestinian Statehood as a Fundamental Right

UN Secretary-General's Call for Palestinian Statehood

On Tuesday, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that "statehood for Palestinians is a right, not a reward." Speaking to member nations at the UN Headquarters in New York, he reiterated the organization's commitment to a two-state solution as a means to resolve the enduring Israel-Gaza conflict.

Guterres pointed out that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has persisted for generations, with dialogue stalling and resolutions being ignored. He emphasized the UN's established stance on the two-state framework, advocating for two independent, sovereign, and democratic states—Israel and Palestine—to coexist peacefully and securely within recognized borders based on the pre-1967 lines, with Jerusalem serving as the capital for both, in accordance with international law and relevant agreements.

He remarked, "Statehood for a Palestinian is a right, not a reward, and denying statehood would be a gift to extremists everywhere. Without two states, there will be no peace in the Middle East." In a separate message on social media, Guterres urged for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access in the region. He condemned the October 7 attacks by Hamas, the taking of hostages, and the collective punishment of the Palestinian people, as well as any form of ethnic cleansing.

Guterres' Message on Social Media

Statehood for the Palestinians is a right, not a reward.

Denying statehood would be a gift to extremists everywhere.

The Two-State solution is the only credible path to a just & lasting peace between Israelis & Palestinians and to wider peace & security in the Middle East.

— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) September 23, 2025