First Armenian Minister in Palestinian Government Speaks in Yerevan: “Peace Must Be the Goal”

In a moment of Armenian-Palestinian solidarity, Varsen Aghabekian, the first person of Armenian descent to be appointed to a ministerial role in the Palestinian government, gave a wide-ranging interview to Armenian press, while attending the Yerevan Dialogue diplomacy forum.

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Appointed in 2024 as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Expatriates by the Palestinian Authority, Aghabekian brings a unique perspective to regional politics as both an Armenian and a Palestinian. A former dean and associate professor at Al-Quds University, her academic background strengthens her diplomatic voice at a time when calls for peace and accountability are growing louder across the globe.

In Yerevan, speaking to local media and international guests, including The Armenian Report, Aghabekian addressed urgent issues—from the devastating war in Gaza to the recognition of Palestine by Armenia, and the status of the Armenian community in Jerusalem.

“Enough Is Enough”: A Humanitarian Plea from Gaza

When asked about the possibility of lasting peace in the Gaza Strip, Aghabekian responded with urgency and sorrow.

“I think we should always stay hopeful, because in the final analysis, civilians are dying every day. Just yesterday, 25 children were burned to death. Enough is enough—these atrocities must stop,” she said.

She emphasized that the war can end if there is real political will. “The world should exert every effort to stop this war. We know it can be stopped—it just requires a genuine intent to stop it.”

Aghabekian called for a full political process that halts the violence, responds to Gaza’s humanitarian needs, and begins rebuilding.

Armenia’s Path to Peace Offers a Global Model

During the interview, Aghabekian was asked how events like the Yerevan Dialogue could help Armenia—and other nations—promote peace.

“This conference is extremely important because it brings together policymakers, diplomats, and decision-makers from all over the world,” she said. “The peace agreement that Armenia is working toward with Azerbaijan is a good example—it proves that the military route is a dead end. Peace must be the objective, not war.”

She believes Armenia’s approach can serve as a model for other regions facing long-standing conflict—but only if leaders genuinely want peace.

“You can sign any agreement, but if the intent isn’t there, it’s just a piece of paper,” she warned. “True peace must be sustainable.”

A Bold Step: Armenia’s Recognition of Palestine

When asked about Armenia’s recent decision to officially recognize the State of Palestine, Aghabekian was clear and grateful.

“It was a very wise decision,” she said. “Armenia is upholding international law and supporting the right of peoples to self-determination.”

She explained that Palestinians have already conceded 78% of their historic homeland and are seeking sovereignty in the remaining 22%—land that 149 countries, including Armenia, now officially recognize as the future State of Palestine.

“It’s not just symbolic. It sends a message to Israel that the world supports Palestine’s right to exist,” she said. “And we’re very grateful to Armenia for taking that step.”

The Armenian Report’s Question: Protecting Armenians in Jerusalem

During the interview, The Armenian Report asked Aghabekian directly about the challenges faced by Armenians in Jerusalem, particularly in the historic Armenian Quarter, where community members are under increasing pressure.

“Yes, I follow very closely what’s happening,” she responded. “I’ve written two books about the Armenians of Jerusalem—their contributions and how they defended the Armenian Quarter in 1948.”

She expressed deep concern over the future of Armenian cultural heritage in the city.

“I care deeply about their resilience and will do whatever it takes to support them,” she said. “Preserving that heritage begins with stopping this war.”

A Fair Peace Means Holding All Sides Accountable

In response to a question about the growing divide between U.S. and Israeli interests, Aghabekian did not shy away from pointing out the imbalance in global diplomacy.

“The U.S. has historically provided unwavering support to Israel. But no matter who supports Israel, they cannot ignore the rights of another nation—Palestine.”

She stressed that advocating for Palestinian rights is not antisemitic—it’s about holding all states accountable.

“If any other country did what Israel has done for seven decades, the world would act. We must not confuse legitimate criticism of a state with hatred.”

A Shared Struggle, A Shared Vision

Aghabekian closed with a message that echoed far beyond the walls of the forum. The conflict, she said, is not just about borders—it’s about dignity, identity, and the future of all communities in the region, including Armenians.

“Peace is not just for Palestinians. Peace helps Armenians stay in their homes too—whether in Syria, Lebanon, or Palestine,” she said. “We want our communities to stay, to contribute, and to thrive.”

In Yerevan, Varsen Aghabekian stood not only as a high-ranking official, but as a bridge between two ancient peoples—Armenians and Palestinians—united by a shared history of survival and a common dream for peace.

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