Policy

UN conference on two-state solution convenes without the US and Israel


Dozens of ministers gathered at the United Nations on Monday for a long-delayed conference aimed at advancing efforts toward a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. However, both the United States and Israel announced they would boycott the event.

The 193-member UN General Assembly decided in September last year to hold the conference in 2025. The event, co-organized by France and Saudi Arabia, was postponed in June following Israel’s attack on Iran.

The conference aims to define clear criteria for a roadmap toward the establishment of a Palestinian state while ensuring Israel’s security.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told La Tribune Dimanche on Sunday that he would use the conference to urge other countries to join France in recognizing a Palestinian state.

French President Emmanuel Macron had already announced last week that France intends to formally recognize the State of Palestine this September during the UN General Assembly.

“We will issue a call from New York encouraging other countries to join us in a more ambitious and assertive path, culminating on September 21,” said Barrot, adding he expects Arab nations to issue a clear condemnation of Hamas and call for its disarmament.

The conference takes place as war continues between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, now entering its 22nd month.

A US State Department spokesperson said the United States would not attend the conference, calling it “a gift to Hamas, which continues to reject ceasefire proposals accepted by Israel—proposals that would lead to the release of hostages and calm in Gaza.”

The spokesperson noted that the US had voted against the UN General Assembly’s call last year to hold the conference, stating Washington “will not support any measures that undermine the prospects of a lasting peaceful resolution to the conflict.”

Jonathan Harounoff, international spokesperson for Israel’s UN mission, said Israel would not participate in the conference “as long as it fails to urgently address the need to condemn Hamas and secure the return of all remaining hostages.”

The UN has long supported the vision of two states living side by side within secure and recognized borders. Palestinians seek a state in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip—territories occupied by Israel during the 1967 war.

In May last year, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly backed a Palestinian initiative recognizing Palestine’s eligibility for full UN membership and called on the Security Council to “reconsider the matter positively.” The resolution passed with 143 votes in favor and only nine opposed.

Meanwhile, the Israeli offensive in Gaza continues with no breakthrough in negotiations. On Sunday, US President Donald Trump said Israel must decide on its next steps following its withdrawal from ceasefire talks with Hamas.

Trump emphasized the need to release hostages held in Gaza, saying Hamas had recently adopted a “hardline” stance. He promised additional US aid to the war-ravaged territory.

At a meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at his Turnberry golf resort in Scotland, Trump said, “They don’t want to return them, so Israel will have to make a decision.”

“I know what I’d do, but I don’t think it’s appropriate to say,” he added. He also claimed, without evidence, that Hamas militants were stealing and reselling aid entering Gaza.

Gaza’s Health Ministry, run by Hamas, reported dozens of deaths from malnutrition in recent weeks. Six more deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours, bringing the total to 133, including 87 children.

On Friday, Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared to abandon ceasefire talks with Hamas, stating the group was clearly not seeking an agreement.

Netanyahu said Israel was now considering “alternative” options to bring the hostages home and end Hamas’ rule in Gaza, where famine is spreading and most of the population is displaced amid widespread destruction.

Trump stated Hamas leaders would now be hunted down. “Hamas never really wanted a deal. I think they want to die. That’s very sad. The mission has to be completed.”

He also announced increased US humanitarian aid to Gaza and urged other countries to contribute. “We’re giving a lot of money, food, everything. If we weren’t there, people would truly be starving,” he said.

Criticizing European nations, Trump added: “No one else gave anything. No one even said, ‘Thank you.’ It would be nice to hear at least a word of appreciation.”

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