A United Nations conference, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, is set to convene in New York from July 28-30, aiming to reignite discussions on a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. This comes amidst the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, characterized by mass starvation and widespread destruction following prolonged Israeli military action. Over 100 countries are expected to attend, with a notable absence from Israel and its key ally, the United States.
A significant development preceding the conference is France’s announcement to formally recognize the State of Palestine in September. This move, according to Richard Gowan, an analyst at the International Crisis Group, could inject new life into the conference, prompting other participating nations to consider similar declarations of intent. Currently, at least 142 of the 193 UN member states, including France, already recognize the Palestinian state.
The idea of a two-state solution, which involves the establishment of independent Israeli and Palestinian states, originated from a 1947 UN General Assembly resolution. However, subsequent conflicts and annexations have resulted in Israel controlling nearly all of the original territory. The current landscape in Gaza, with widespread destruction and discussions of shifting the population to a “humanitarian city,” further complicates the geographical feasibility of a Palestinian state. Additionally, Israeli settlements continue to expand in the West Bank, with officials indicating plans for further annexation.
Despite the complexities, a French diplomatic source emphasized the heightened necessity of a two-state solution, stating there is “no alternative.” Beyond fostering wider recognition of a Palestinian state, the three-day New York meeting will focus on three additional key areas: reform of the Palestinian Authority, disarmament and exclusion of Hamas from Palestinian public life, and normalization of relations between Israel and Arab states that have not yet done so.
While the United Kingdom and Germany have indicated they will not unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state, strong criticism of Israel is anticipated at the conference. Riyad Mansour, the Palestinian ambassador to the UN, urged participants to show “courage” and transform international consensus into an achievable plan to end the occupation and conflict. Conversely, Danny Danon, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, has dismissed the conference, arguing it fails to prioritize condemning Hamas and securing the return of hostages.