His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday said that despite difficult times parties to the Middle East conflict would face, they can get to the endgame.

He said in a speech to the European Parliament in Strasbourg that the issues on the table are “complex and decades-old” and “real grievances must be faced - and left behind”.

On the positive side, however, “Israelis and Palestinians understand their deep, shared stake in ending the conflict. And a great amount of work has already been done… the parameters of the solutions are in focus. I believe the parties can get to the endgame”.

For this to happen, King Abdullah said it is vital that the international community, particularly the EU, be engaged.

The union's role is particularly significant in the aftermath of the hoped peace settlement, he told lawmakers.

“Europe has a unique experience with the mechanisms and process of post-conflict recovery and reconciliation. This includes creating a security framework that can offer assurance to both sides. European peacekeeping forces have played a constructive role in Lebanon. Your commitment can help bring great trust to a Palestinian-Israeli settlement.”