Antony Blinken says two-state solution is best for Israeli-Palestinian conflict

The US Secretary of State said Washington would oppose any "one-sided" action against Israel

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is vital for peace in the Middle East. AP 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stressed the importance of a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in a call with his Israeli counterpart, Gabi Ashkenazi, on Tuesday.

"The Secretary addressed the US approach towards a more peaceful, secure and prosperous future for Israelis, Palestinians and the greater Middle East," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said.

"The Secretary also emphasized the Biden Administration's belief that the two-state solution is the best way to ensure Israel's future as a Jewish and democratic state, living in peace alongside a viable and democratic Palestinian state," said Mr Price.

Mr Blinken said the US would oppose “one-sided actions” against Israel.

Earlier in February, the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the Hague issued a ruling which effectively allows it to open investigations into war crimes in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Israel opposed the ruling, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling the ICC, an independent body established by the Rome Statute, a “political” entity.

The statement made no mention of Iran in the phone call between the foreign ministers.

This was  despite signals from the US that it would be willing to return to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) – known as the Iran nuclear deal.