Norway’s Foreign Minister Pushes for One-State Solution in Israel-Palestine Conflict

Norway’s Foreign Minister Pushes for One-State Solution in Israel-Palestine Conflict

Norwegian Foreign Minister, Anniken Huitfeldt, has voiced her concern over the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict at a meeting of the UN’s Ad Hoc Liaison Committee (AHLC). She suggested that ‘time is running out’ for the two-state solution and proposed a one-state solution with ‘equal rights for all’ as a potential resolution to the conflict.

Highlighting the Urgency of the Situation

Huitfeldt emphasized the urgency of the situation, drawing attention to the continued violent occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel and the denial of equal rights to Palestinians. She criticized the lack of progress made by the AHLC, while acknowledging some improvements in infrastructure.

(Read Also: Israel’s Supreme Court to Revisit Incapacitation Law Amendment: A Constitutional Debate)

Call for Ceasing Actions Undermining Palestinian Authority

The Norwegian Foreign Minister urged Israel to cease actions undermining the Palestinian Authority. She called on all parties to seek a political solution in the interest of peace and stability. This call comes as the Oslo Accords, a step towards a two-state solution, marked its 30th anniversary.

The Intensity of Violence and Rights Violations

Violence and rights violations in the region have intensified, with an increase in settler attacks, expansion of settlements, and a high annual death toll of Palestinians. This further underscores the urgency of finding a resolution to the conflict.

(Read Also: Israeli Forces Conduct Operation in West Bank: 13 Arrested, Weapons Seized)

Norway’s Role and Position in the Israel-Palestine Conflict

For many years, Norway, as a neutral country, has sought to advance a negotiated two-state solution with Israel and Palestine existing side by side in peace and security within secure and internationally recognized borders. Norway’s position is that only a negotiated two-state solution can bring about sustainable peace between the Israelis and Palestinians. However, Huitfeldt’s recent suggestions signal a shift in perspective, acknowledging the limitations of the current approach and the need for a more inclusive solution.

The AHLC and Its Aim

Since the Oslo Accords of 1993 and 1995, Norway has chaired the international donor group for Palestine, the AHLC. The aim of the AHLC is to develop the institutional and economic foundation for a future Palestinian state based on a negotiated two-state solution. This requires cooperation between Palestine and Israel and support from the donor countries.

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