Trump Addresses UN Amidst Escalating Israeli-Gaza Conflict
As Israeli attacks on Gaza City intensify, former US President Donald Trump addressed the UN General Assembly in New York on September 29th. The speech comes as world leaders gather for the 80th anniversary of the UN, with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas dominating discussions.
Trump's Speech and Meetings at the UN
According to a White House spokesperson, Trump's speech was expected to be critical of "globalist institutions," which he believes have "significantly decayed the world order." Following the address, Trump engaged in individual meetings with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, as well as the leaders of Ukraine, Argentina, and the European Union. He also convened a group meeting with officials from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan to discuss postwar governance in Gaza, potentially without Hamas involvement.
Discussions on Postwar Gaza Governance
Reports indicate that the United States is seeking agreements from Arab and Muslim countries to send military forces to Gaza, facilitating Israel's withdrawal and contributing to the reconstruction of the devastated Strip. These discussions occur against the backdrop of shattered ceasefire hopes following an Israeli airstrike on a Hamas negotiating team in Qatar, further dimming the prospects for peace.
Escalation in Gaza City
The diplomatic efforts coincide with Israel's ongoing assault on Gaza City, the largest urban center in the territory and what Israel claims as the last stronghold of Hamas. Reports suggest Israeli tanks have advanced into the city center from the north and south amidst intensifying air attacks and ground forces operations. This military action follows a ground offensive launched last week, expanding the assault on the city after weeks of intense bombardments.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
A famine was declared in Gaza City and its surrounding area last month due to Israeli restrictions on aid. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have fled southwards following evacuation orders from the IDF, however, a similar number, many unable to move, remain in the city despite the extreme danger, as there is effectively nowhere safe to move to in the Strip.
The Two-State Solution: A Path to Peace?
Amidst the crisis, discussions at the United Nations have focused on a two-state solution to resolve the conflict. The plan, backed by the international community, proposes an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza, with East Jerusalem as its capital, existing alongside Israel. However, the feasibility and implementation of such a solution remain complex.
Challenges to Palestinian State Recognition
While Palestine has garnered international recognition, holding diplomatic missions and participating in sporting events, its status as a quasi-state faces challenges. It lacks internationally agreed boundaries, a capital, and an army. The Israeli occupation in the West Bank restricts the Palestinian Authority's control over its land and people, while Gaza endures a devastating war. The symbolism of recognition remains strong, representing a moral and political statement but potentially changing little on the ground. Efforts towards a two-state solution have been hindered by Israel's colonization of large parts of the West Bank, deemed illegal under international law.
