France, Saudi Arabia Host U.N. Conference on Palestinian Statehood – U.S. and Israel Skip
A major international conference about the future of Palestine is taking place this week, hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. The meeting, backed by the United Nations, aims to create a clear roadmap for a Palestinian state, while also ensuring Israel’s security.
The 193-member U.N. General Assembly had agreed last year to hold this peace conference in 2025. However, it was moved forward but delayed in June after Israel attacked Iran.
At the opening of the conference, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan said all countries must support the plan to help create a two-state solution — one for Israel and one for Palestine.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said this conference should not just be “more talk.” He urged leaders to make it a turning point toward ending the conflict and achieving peace.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stressed that it’s time to move from the war in Gaza to ending the long-running Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He also said France is pushing for more countries to recognize Palestine.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France plans to officially recognize Palestine as a state during the next U.N. General Assembly in September 2025.
Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa also spoke, calling on all countries to recognize Palestine now. He said, “Peace starts with recognizing the state of Palestine and protecting it.”
U.S. and Israel Boycott Conference
The United States and Israel are not attending the conference. A U.S. State Department spokesperson said the event is a “gift to Hamas” and doesn’t help in achieving peace. They believe it harms the chances of a lasting solution.
Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon said the event “does not promote peace” and accused the organizers of ignoring the reality on the ground.
The war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has continued for nearly 22 months, since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and led to 250 hostages. Since then, almost 60,000 Palestinians have died in Israeli attacks, according to Gaza health officials.
The U.N. has always supported a two-state solution, where both countries live side by side in peace. Palestinians want a state made up of the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza, which Israel captured in the 1967 war.
In May 2024, the U.N. General Assembly voted strongly in favor of recognizing Palestine as a qualified member of the United Nations. Although the U.S. vetoed full membership in the Security Council, 143 countries supported the resolution.
Mutib Khalid is a skilled content writer and digital marketer with a knack for crafting compelling narratives and optimizing digital strategies. Excel in creating engaging content that drives results and enhances online presence. Passionate about blending creativity with data-driven approaches, Mutib Khalid helps brands connect with their audience and achieve their goals.