António Costa calls for full implementation of Gaza peace plan

European Council President António Costa has called for the full implementation of a peace plan for Gaza, warning that the two-state solution is being daily undermined in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Speaking at an international high-level meeting, Costa noted that despite 142 countries supporting the New York Declaration on a two-state solution last year, the situation on the ground has seen little improvement.

The proposed roadmap for Gaza includes the disarmament of Hamas, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the deployment of international stabilization forces and police, and the establishment of a National Committee to govern Gaza. Costa highlighted the humanitarian urgency, noting that approximately two million people face the upcoming winter living in tents and ruins due to blocked access rather than a lack of aid.

Regarding the West Bank, Costa cited settler violence, impunity, community displacement, and de facto annexation as threats to regional stability. He reiterated the European Union's position that Israeli settlements in occupied Palestinian territories are illegal under international law. Additionally, he called for the strengthening of the Palestinian Authority through elections and urged Israel to facilitate their conduct to restore democratic legitimacy.