142 Nations Back Two-State Solution as France and Saudi Arabia Co-Chair Key UN Conference

New York, United States – French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman are set to co-chair a pivotal conference in New York on Monday, aimed at mobilizing international support for a two-state solution in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This high-level meeting follows a recent telephone call between the two leaders, where they discussed the outcomes of a previous international conference on the peaceful settlement of the Question of Palestine.

The upcoming conference builds on significant diplomatic momentum, notably the adoption of a "New York Declaration on the two-State solution" by 142 countries. President Macron highlighted this as a "turning point in charting a path toward lasting peace and security in the Middle East," emphasizing the goal of "2 peoples, 2 States, peace and security for all." This declaration underscores a growing international consensus on the necessity of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

European nations have increasingly signaled their support for Palestinian statehood, with Spain, Ireland, and Norway having already formally recognized it earlier this year. France has also indicated its intention to formally recognize Palestine, with Macron previously stating such a move would occur "at the right moment." The French-Saudi initiative aims to further rally global partners, including other European and non-European allies, towards this diplomatic path.

However, the initiative faces opposition, particularly from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. According to the tweet, Netanyahu insists that "easing control of Gaza would only fuel another cycle of war with Hamas." This stance reflects a deep-seated concern within Israel regarding security implications and the role of Hamas in any future Palestinian governance.

The conference in New York is seen as a critical step in advancing diplomatic efforts amid ongoing regional tensions. France and Saudi Arabia have been actively pushing for a renewed focus on the two-state solution, with previous discussions between their leaders emphasizing the need for a permanent ceasefire, the release of hostages, and large-scale humanitarian aid in Gaza, alongside reforms to the Palestinian Authority.