UN calls for two-state solution with Jerusalem as capital of both states

The UN has called on the international community to move towards a two-state solution in the Israel-Palestine conflict, stating that Jerusalem should serve as the capital of both states.

"It is long past time to move in a determined, irreversible way towards a two-state solution, on the basis of United Nations resolutions and international law," said Tatiana Valovaya, director-general of the UN office in Geneva, delivering a speech written by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres.

She said that would mean "Israel and Palestine living side-by-side in peace and security with Jerusalem as the capital of both states."

Ibrahim Khraishi, Palestine's ambassador to the UN in Geneva, said the current war served as a wake-up call for the international community to support the two-state solution.

"The two-state solution is difficult after the [Israeli] settlement and shrinking [of territory], but still possible if there is a will," Khraishi said.

"Now is the moment. And it's good for Israel by the way. If they don't accept the idea, it will be too late for them, not for us."