New york: The “New York Declaration” has emphasized the urgent need for Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza and transfer its weapons to the Palestinian Authority as part of a broader effort to achieve a peaceful settlement of the Palestinian issue and the realization of a two-state solution.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the declaration highlighted a firm stance against any measures that could lead to territorial or demographic changes, such as the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians. The declaration further outlined commitments to take concrete, time-bound, and irreversible steps towards peace in the region.

The declaration warned that without decisive action and strong international guarantees for a two-state solution, the conflict would likely escalate, making regional peace increasingly unattainable. It also emphasized the commitment to a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the Middle East, with a future “Day of Peace” envisioned based on the Arab Peace Initiative.

The declaration also expressed support for renewed efforts on the Syrian-Israeli and Lebanese-Israeli tracks, aiming for broader regional peace. It called for the formation of a transitional administrative committee to operate in Gaza under the auspices of the Palestinian Authority following a ceasefire. This move is seen as a step towards ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza and achieving a lasting settlement between Israel and Palestine.

The declaration condemned all attacks against civilians, specifically denouncing the actions of Hamas on October 7 and criticizing Israel’s attacks on civilians and infrastructure in Gaza, along with the blockade and starvation tactics. It urged for the immediate cessation of the war in Gaza and the urgent, safe delivery of aid to the region.

Lastly, the declaration underscored the importance of Gaza as an integral part of the Palestinian state, advocating for its reunification with the West Bank as part of a comprehensive peace strategy.