‘This Is Not a Religious Conflict’: Palestinian FM Refutes Israeli Narrative

Why It Matters

By reframing the dispute as a rights issue rather than a religious war, the Palestinian leadership aims to garner broader international support for a two‑state solution and reduce polarizing narratives that hinder diplomatic progress.

Key Takeaways

• Palestinian FM denies religious framing of Israel‑Palestine conflict.
• Calls narrative of Judeo‑Christian vs Islamic barbarism harmful.
• Emphasizes conflict is about Palestinian rights and statehood.
• Reiterates two‑state solution as only viable path forward.
• Stresses peace must rest on equality, justice, not violence.

Summary

The video features Palestinian Foreign Minister Riyad al‑Maliki rejecting the portrayal of the Israel‑Palestine war as a clash of religions. He argues that framing the conflict as Judeo‑Christian civilization versus Islamic barbarism distorts reality and fuels global tensions.

Al‑Maliki emphasizes that the core issue is the denial of Palestinian rights and the continued occupation of their ancestral lands. He calls for an end to the occupation, recognition of a sovereign Palestinian state, and asserts that a two‑state solution grounded in international law is the only realistic pathway.

Notable statements include, “This is not a religious conflict,” and “Peace is only possible among equals, not between oppressor and oppressed.” He stresses that lasting peace must be built on mutual recognition, justice, and a forward‑looking vision rather than vengeance or further violence.

The remarks signal a diplomatic push to shift the narrative away from religious rhetoric toward a rights‑based framework, potentially influencing international mediation efforts and shaping how governments and NGOs approach peace negotiations.

Original Description

Speaking at the UN Security Council, Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin rejected attempts to frame Israel’s occupation as a religious conflict, saying the struggle is about Palestinian rights and existence on ancestral land. She says peace can only come through justice, mutual recognition and a two-state solution based on international legitimacy.

Subscribe to our channel: http://bit.ly/AJSubscribe

Follow us on X : https://twitter.com/AJEnglish

Find us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aljazeera

Check our website: http://www.aljazeera.com/

Check out our Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/aljazeeraenglish/

Download AJE Mobile App: https://aje.news/AJEMobile