The statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry reflects Russia’s stance onthe ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly in response to thelatest attacks by Hamas on Israel. Russia has consistently advocated for atwo-state solution to the conflict, which would involve the establishmentof an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.
In this statement, Russia reaffirms its support for the creation of a “freePalestinian state” within the borders that existed before the 1967 Six-DayWar. This reference to the 1967 borders is significant because it signifiesRussia’s alignment with international consensus, which generally recognizesthese pre-war borders as the basis for negotiations between Israel and thePalestinians.
Furthermore, the statement underscores Russia’s commitment to the idea ofEast Jerusalem serving as the capital of this envisioned Palestinian state.East Jerusalem is a contentious issue in the Israeli-Palestinian conflictas both parties claim it as their rightful capital.
By explicitly stating support for East Jerusalem as the capital of aPalestinian state, Russia takes a stance that aligns with the Palestinianperspective. This position implies a willingness to engage in diplomaticefforts to resolve the conflict and reach a lasting peace agreement, whereboth Israelis and Palestinians can coexist side by side in their respectivestates. Overall, Russia’s statement reflects its diplomatic approach to thecomplex and longstanding Middle East conflict, emphasizing the need for apeaceful resolution based on the principles of a two-state solution.
