His Majesty King Abdullah on Friday underscored that the two-state solution is the only way to end the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and achieve comprehensive peace in the region.

In a lecture at the Royal College of Defence Studies, King Abdullah stressed that creating an appropriate environment for restarting direct negotiations requires the halt of all unilateral Israeli measures, particularly settlement activities.

King Abdullah also outlined other obstacles to the resumption of direct Palestinian-Israeli negotiations.

He urged the international community to intensify its efforts to overcome the challenges facing peace efforts, which must fulfill Palestinians' legitimate right to establish an independent state.

The King said the Palestinian issue is the core of conflict in the Middle East and that resolving it would help defuse several regional crises. He warned that the alternative to peace is more conflict for which the region and the world will pay the price.

He also discussed the latest developments in Iraq, noting that Iraq's security is a basic pillar of the region's stability. The King stressed the importance of forming an Iraqi government that can achieve the Iraqi people's aspirations of a better future, highlighting Jordan's support for reconciliation among Iraqi people.

He also referred to Jordan's efforts to accelerate the process of reform, modernisation and development, which he said will have a positive impact on Jordanians' lives in all political, economic and social fields.

Following the lecture, King Abdullah conversed with several college students and professors, during which he answered questions on regional and international issues.

The Royal College of Defence Studies, established in 1927, is one of the most renowned defence educational institutions worldwide.

The King was accompanied by Royal Court Chief Nasser Lozi.