Guyana Reaffirms Unwavering Support for Two-State Solution at UN Security Council

Guyana's Stance on Israel-Palestine Conflict Reiterated

Guyana has once again affirmed its unwavering support for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. This commitment was articulated by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Hugh Todd during the 10003rd meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025. The meeting addressed 'The situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question'.

Minister Todd underscored that the 'prolonged cycle of Israeli aggression cannot remain the defining feature of Middle Eastern politics'. He highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating that 'The war in Gaza has become a catalyst for pain and pressure, targeting thousands of Palestinians through starvation, bombardment, displacement and other cruelties designed to subjugate a people'. Todd also noted the international community's failure to prevent famine in Gaza, despite widespread awareness, asserting that 'famine unfolded in Gaza in full view of the international community, and yet 192 countries could not stop it'.

Calls for International Action and Recognition

During his address, Minister Todd emphasized that political and diplomatic pressure appear to be the only effective avenues for Israel to respond to mounting international condemnation. He urged member states to ensure that their engagements with Israel do not contribute to prolonging the conflict or the oppression of Palestinians. Todd drew a parallel between the current situation and the dismantling of apartheid in South Africa, arguing that the occupation of Palestinian lands requires a similarly unified and organized international response.

Key demands outlined by Minister Todd included:

• An immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
• The release of all hostages and Palestinian detainees.
• Unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza.
• An immediate halt to actions that undermine the two-state solution.
• Recognition of the State of Palestine by all UN member states.

He stressed that the recognition of Palestine by all UN member states is critical to advancing the goal of a lasting peace. Guyana's formal recognition of the State of Palestine dates back to 2011, based on its 1967 borders, reflecting a long-standing commitment to the self-determination of the Palestinian people.

Adherence to International Law and UN Resolutions

Minister Todd referenced the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which has confirmed Israel's prolonged occupation as illegal under international law and called for its termination. He also reminded the Security Council that the UN General Assembly had set a September 18, 2025, deadline for Israel to end its occupation, a deadline that has passed without compliance. Todd warned that 'Instead, we have witnessed a series of developments that entrench the occupation even further and erode the prospects of a two-state solution'.

Guyana's consistent advocacy for a two-state solution aligns with its broader foreign policy principles of upholding international law and promoting peaceful resolutions to conflicts. The nation continues to call on Israel to respect the UN Charter and adhere to relevant Security Council and General Assembly resolutions.