Cyprus has reaffirmed its readiness to reactivate the Gaza maritime humanitarian corridor, while underscoring its commitment to a two-state solution as the only viable path to peace, stability, and security in the Middle East.
Speaking at the International Conference on Palestine in New York on Tuesday, Cyprus’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Maria Michail, thanked France and Saudi Arabia for convening the meeting. She stressed that Cyprus’s participation reflects its determination to address the political and humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
Ambassador Michail reiterated Cyprus’s longstanding recognition of the State of Palestine since 1988 and its role as a bridge for regional stability.
Condemning any territorial or demographic changes in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, she stressed that the two-state solution has no alternative. Referring to the aftermath of the Hamas attack on 7 October and the subsequent war in Gaza, she called for an immediate and lasting de-escalation, an urgent ceasefire, and the release of all hostages.
Michail highlighted the “unacceptable humanitarian conditions” in Gaza, urging immediate, sustained access and large-scale distribution of aid throughout the territory. She welcomed the efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States in pushing toward these goals.
“Last week, Cyprus joined more than twenty countries in a Joint Statement emphasising that civilian suffering in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, and rejecting any attempt at territorial or demographic alteration in the Occupied Palestinian Territories,” she said.
Michail confirmed that Cyprus is prepared to assist, including by reactivating the Gaza maritime humanitarian corridor. She stressed that Israel’s compliance with its obligations is essential, including lifting restrictions to allow unhindered, large-scale humanitarian access in line with humanitarian principles.
Cyprus fully supports the EU’s increased engagement with Israel, aiming for tangible progress on the ground for the benefit of civilians. Michail reaffirmed that Cyprus is firmly opposed to any population transfers and welcomed the Arab Recovery and Reconstruction Plan as a solid basis for further discussion.
“Hamas cannot have a future in Gaza,” she added, noting that Hamas is not the Palestinian people.
Given the severity of the situation, she stressed the importance of continued support for reform efforts within the Palestinian Authority. Political, financial, and technical reorganisation is essential for the Authority to fully assume its responsibilities in Gaza. “Cyprus is fully committed to this effort, particularly as it prepares to assume the EU Presidency in the first half of 2026,” Michail said.
She also called for avoiding further militarisation of the West Bank, halting settlement activity, and supporting the Palestinian Authority through reforms.
Concluding, Michail reiterated Cyprus’s position in favour of a viable Palestinian state comprising the West Bank and Gaza with East Jerusalem as its capital, coexisting with Israel in peace and security.
Also read: What does France’s recognition of Palestinian statehood mean?
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