ieExplains: What is the two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict?

Britain, France and Canada plan to recognise Palestine — but deep divisions still threaten the viability of a two-state solution

Crowds form as Palestinians, including children, line up in Gaza City, Gaza to receive food distributed by a charity amid ongoing Israeli blockade and attacks on Gaza on July 22, 2025. (Photo by Ali Jadallah/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Britain has said it will recognise a Palestinian state in September unless Israel takes steps including alleviating the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and committing to a long-term peace process that delivers a two-state solution.

The announcement, coming after France declared that it will recognise a Palestinian state in September, has put renewed focus on the two-state solution to the conflict.