New York: A landmark international summit convened by France and Saudi Arabia opened in New York on Monday, bringing together world leaders to push for renewed momentum on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The gathering, held on the eve of the United Nations General Assembly, represents a rare coordinated effort to secure formal recognition for a Palestinian state by several Western nations, including France, Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal.
The summit takes place against the backdrop of intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza and escalating violence in the West Bank, with humanitarian concerns mounting daily. While European and Middle Eastern nations advocated for renewed dialogue and the establishment of Palestinian sovereignty, the United States and Israel opted to boycott the event. Israel’s U.N. Ambassador, Danny Danon, dismissed the summit as a “circus” and accused participants of rewarding terrorism. Reports indicate that Israeli authorities are considering potential annexation moves in the occupied West Bank and may implement retaliatory measures against France and other supportive nations.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is participating virtually due to visa restrictions, highlighting the ongoing obstacles faced by Palestinian leaders in engaging with international forums. Despite his remote presence, Palestinian officials hailed the summit as a historic step in their pursuit of statehood. Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin emphasized that recognition by France, Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal represents an “irreversible step” toward sovereignty and strengthens the prospects of a viable two-state solution.
The summit has triggered strong reactions across the globe. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognitions as an encouragement to terrorism and a setback to peace efforts. Conversely, Palestinian officials and citizens welcomed the development, calling on the international community to take concrete measures to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and halt the escalation of conflict in Gaza. Observers note that the move could reshape diplomatic alignments, particularly in the lead-up to the U.N. General Assembly, where discussions on global crises including Gaza and Ukraine are expected to dominate the agenda.
The recognition of Palestinian statehood by several key Western nations marks a significant shift in international diplomacy. While the summit signals broadening global support for a two-state solution, questions remain about the practical implications for peace on the ground. The coming weeks are expected to test whether this diplomatic momentum can translate into tangible actions to resolve the conflict, safeguard civilians, and restore prospects for long-term stability in the region.