The two-state solution is a proposed way to resolve the Israel-Palestine conflict by creating two separate states : one for Israel and one for Palestinians. In most versions, Israel and a future Palestinian state would live side by side, often with the Palestinian state formed in the West Bank and Gaza Strip and with Jerusalem needing a negotiated status.

What it means

At its core, the idea is:

  • Israel remains a sovereign state for the Jewish people.
  • Palestinians get an independent state of their own.
  • The two states would agree on final issues like borders, Jerusalem, security, refugees, and settlements.

Why people support it

Supporters see it as a practical compromise because it gives both peoples self-determination in the same land. It has also been the main framework backed in many peace efforts since the Oslo Accords in 1993 , which launched a process aimed at a two-state outcome.

Main disputes

The biggest obstacles are:

  • Where the borders would be , especially whether they follow the 1967 lines with land swaps.
  • What happens to Jerusalem , which both sides claim.
  • Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
  • Palestinian refugee rights , including whether and how refugees could return.

Simple example

A common version of the plan would give:

  • Israel most of its current territory.
  • Palestine a state in the West Bank and Gaza.
  • Shared or negotiated arrangements for Jerusalem and security.

Current status

The two-state solution is still widely discussed internationally, but it has faced major political and practical setbacks, and negotiations have often stalled.

If you want, I can also give you a very short 2-line version or a pros vs. cons breakdown.