NEW YORK: The United Nations will host a pivotal international conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from June 17 to 20 in New York.
UN spokeswoman Sharon Birch confirmed the dates on Friday, emphasizing the event’s aim to revive the long-stalled two-state solution.
The summit, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, follows a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in December 2024.
Diplomatic sources suggest the meeting could accelerate global recognition of a sovereign Palestinian state.
Momentum Builds for Palestinian Statehood
A Paris-based diplomat involved in the conference preparations said the event may prompt more nations to formally recognize Palestine.
Currently, nearly 150 countries acknowledge the State of Palestine. However, it remains an observer at the UN, lacking full membership due to Security Council inaction.
In May 2024, Ireland, Norway, and Spain recognized Palestinian statehood, adding momentum to the cause.
Yet, major European powers, including France, have not followed suit—at least not yet.
France Signals Potential Shift in Recognition Policy
President Emmanuel Macron stated in April that France could recognize Palestine in June, marking a potential diplomatic shift.
He stressed that the conference aims to promote recognition of both Palestine and Israel from nations that still withhold it.
This dual recognition strategy could reshape regional diplomacy and increase international pressure for a negotiated solution.
Macron’s leadership at the summit signals France’s desire to play a central role in Middle East peace efforts.
Normalization and Tensions in the Region
Several Arab nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, and Morocco, normalized ties with Israel under the 2020 Abraham Accords.
However, key regional players—like Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Lebanon—have yet to embrace formal relations with Israel.
Before the Gaza war erupted in October 2023, Saudi Arabia had firmly rejected normalization without a path to Palestinian statehood.
This stance remains unchanged amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in the region.
Israeli Government Stands Firm Against Palestinian Statehood
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration continues to oppose the creation of a Palestinian state.
In recent months, some ministers have even called for annexing the West Bank—territory Israel has occupied since 1967.
Such statements underscore the deep divisions that the upcoming conference will need to address.
As global leaders gather in New York, the world watches to see if this summit can reignite hope for lasting peace.
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