Two States for Two Peoples

Concept and History

Two States for Two Peoples is a plan to end the Arab-Israeli conflict by reversing most of the results of the 1967 Six-Day War. The concept involves returning Israel to its pre-1949 borders and establishing an Arab state of Palestine between Jordan and the Mediterranean Sea alongside the Jewish state of Israel.

Origins

The idea of two separate states in British Mandate Palestine dates back to the Peel Commission's proposal in 1937, during the Great Arab Revolt (1936-1939). This commission suggested the simultaneous establishment of a Jewish state and an Arab state. The concept has undergone various iterations since then, with different proposals and variations.

Key Features

Under this plan, a Palestinian state would grant citizenship to its residents and Palestinian refugees and their descendants, allowing them to immigrate to the new state. It is generally assumed that Arab citizens of Israel will have the option to stay in Israel or move to a Palestinian state and become its citizens. In contrast, Jews are not allowed to reside in a Palestinian state.

UNSC Resolution 242 (1967)

The concept of Two States for Two Peoples is based on UNSC Resolution 242 (1967), which emphasizes "territory for peace." This resolution has been a cornerstone of international efforts to resolve the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Variations and Disputes

Over time, various proposals have emerged with different nuances. For instance, during the November 2007 Annapolis conference, there were disputes about the details of this plan. However, the core idea remains the same: creating two separate states in the western part of historical Palestine, one Jewish and the other Arab.

Citizenship and Residency

According to this proposal, Arabs residing in the West Bank or Gaza Strip would be granted citizenship of the new Palestinian State, as well as Palestinian refugees. Those living in Israel would have the option to choose between Israeli or Palestinian citizenship.