International Conference on Palestine Issue Pushes for Two-State Solution

In a significant diplomatic development, the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution concluded at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City on July 30, 2025. Co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, the conference saw over 125 countries reaffirm their support for a two-state solution, urging Israel to recognize an independent Palestinian state.

The conference culminated in the adoption of the "New York Declaration," a phased roadmap aimed at ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Key components include transferring control of Palestinian territories to the Palestinian Authority and deploying a temporary UN-backed stabilization mission. Notably, major Western nations such as France, the United Kingdom, and Canada have announced plans to recognize Palestinian statehood, marking a significant shift in international policy.

Originally scheduled for June 2025, the conference was postponed due to regional escalations, including the Israel-Iran conflict. The agenda focused on several critical areas:

• Disarmament of Hamas: Discussions centered on strategies to disarm Hamas to ensure regional security.

• Release of Hostages: Efforts were made to negotiate the release of hostages held in the region.

• Reform of the Palestinian Authority: The conference addressed the need for reforms within the Palestinian Authority to enhance governance and stability.

• Post-Conflict Planning: Participants deliberated on plans for rebuilding Gaza and establishing a framework for a peaceful, demilitarized Palestinian state alongside Israel.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September. This decision positions France as the first major Western nation and G7 member to take such action. Similarly, Canada and Malta have declared plans to recognize Palestinian statehood, aligning with a growing list of nations advocating for a two-state solution.

The United States and Israel did not attend the conference, expressing reservations about its objectives and potential outcomes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned France's decision, stating it "rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy." He added, "A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel—not to live in peace beside it."

UN Secretary-General António Guterres strongly condemned Israel's ongoing actions in the occupied Palestinian territories during the conference. He labeled the gradual annexation of the West Bank as illegal and criticized the extensive destruction in Gaza as intolerable. Guterres emphasized that both actions must cease immediately.

The coordinated recognition of Palestinian statehood by major Western nations increases diplomatic pressure on Israel to engage in peace negotiations. The conference also highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for increased aid and reconstruction efforts.

The High-Level International Conference represents a concerted international effort to address the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The adoption of the "New York Declaration" and the growing recognition of Palestinian statehood signal a potential shift toward a sustainable and peaceful resolution.