France and Saudi Arabia will host a World Summit on Monday to rally international support for a two-state solution. Several countries are expected to announce recognition of a Palestinian state, a move likely to spark strong reactions from Israel and the United States.
Israel and the US have already said they will boycott the World Summit. Israel’s U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon dismissed the meeting as a “circus” and argued that it rewards terrorism. Reports suggest Israel may respond by annexing parts of the West Bank or imposing bilateral measures against France.
The summit comes ahead of the United Nations General Assembly session in New York. It follows Israel’s intensified military operations in Gaza and increasing violence in the West Bank. Organisers say the discussions aim to revive momentum for a two-state solution before the opportunity disappears.
Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly endorsed a declaration calling for “tangible, time-bound, and irreversible steps” towards peace. France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the roadmap begins with priorities such as a ceasefire, hostage release, and humanitarian aid access.
Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal recently recognised Palestine, while France and several others are expected to make similar announcements at the World Summit. Supporters believe this will increase pressure on Israel to engage in negotiations.
Palestinian voices remain divided. Some in Gaza doubt recognition will change realities on the ground, while others in the West Bank view it as a historic step forward. Israelis remain sceptical, with many pointing to past failed peace efforts.
The World Summit is seen as one of the most significant global efforts in recent years to keep the two-state solution alive. Whether it brings meaningful progress, however, depends on how both sides respond in the days ahead.
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