Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on plan for ceasefire in Gaza

We welcome this development. It is an important first step, but much remains to be done. It is crucial that the parties now seize the opportunity to end the war. I expect Israel to respond resolutely on this basis.

Several elements of this plan coincide with the discussions we have been engaged in over time, most recently during the UN High-Level Week last week.

Norway is in close contact with partners in the region and beyond on the way forward. An important Norwegian message is that any solution that bypasses Palestinian participation and rights will not provide legitimacy or stability.

Even if the hostilities come to an end, it is important to emphasize that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict must be solved. We cannot return to the situation as it was before the terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. Only through a two-state solution can we ensure peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.