UN Envoy Warns of 'Last Chance' for Two-State Solution Amid Middle East Transformations

The UN envoy for the Middle East peace process, Sigrid Kaag, addressed the Security Council on Tuesday, warning that ongoing transformations in the Middle East could represent the "last chance" for a two-state solution. Kaag cautioned against continued settlement activity in the West Bank and calls for annexation, stating they pose an existential threat to a viable, independent Palestinian state. She urged all parties to avoid a resumption of hostilities in Gaza and to finalize negotiations on the second phase of the truce agreement. Kaag emphasized that Gaza must remain an integral part of a future Palestinian state, with no forced displacement of its population. A UN, World Bank, and EU assessment estimates the cost of Gaza's reconstruction at $53 billion following the recent conflict.