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Foreign ministers

World Leaders Urge Two-State Solution at UN Conference Amid US and Israeli Boycott

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has stressed the need for a decisive turning point in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, urging nations to work towards a two-state solution. The UN General Assembly decided last year to hold a conference on this issue in 2025, but it was postponed after Israel's attack on Iran. Despite the boycott by the US and Israel, dozens of ministers attended the meeting in France and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the importance of supporting a Palestinian state while ensuring Israel's security. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that only a political, two-state solution can respond to the legitimate aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security.

Key Takeaways:

  • The conference was attended by dozens of ministers from around the world, with the exception of the US and Israel, who boycotted the event.
  • The meeting aimed to work towards a roadmap for a Palestinian state, ensuring Israel's security, and ending the occupation.
  • Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud urged countries to support the conference's goal and recognize a Palestinian state.
  • France intends to recognize a Palestinian state in September at the UN General Assembly, as stated by French President Emmanuel Macron.
  • The conflict has resulted in over 59,000 Palestinian casualties, mostly women and children, according to health authorities in Gaza.
  • The US State Department called the conference "unproductive and ill-timed" and a "publicity stunt" that would make finding peace harder.
  • Prince Faisal called for US President Donald Trump's involvement in resolving the conflict, citing his potential to be a catalyst for change.
  • Al Jazeera's senior political analyst, Marwan Bishara, stated that regional powers have limited influence over the situation in Gaza.

Statistics:

  • Over 59,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's military assault on Gaza, mostly women and children.
  • At least 1,139 Palestinians were killed and over 200 were taken captive by Israel in the initial attack on Gaza.
  • The conflict has been ongoing for over 21 months, with no end in sight.
  • 143 UN General Assembly members voted in favour of recognizing Palestinian statehood in May last year.
  • 9 UN General Assembly members voted against recognizing Palestinian statehood in May last year.

Sources:

  • Al Jazeera
  • United Nations General Assembly (December 2024)
  • French Foreign Ministry (July 2025)
  • State Department (July 2025)

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