In a significant diplomatic development, foreign ministers from 15 countries issued a joint statement on Tuesday night (local time) in New York, following a conference co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. The statement emphasized the urgency of reviving a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot posted on social media platform X, saying, “Alongside 14 other countries, France is making a united appeal in New York: we express our willingness to recognize the State of Palestine. We invite those who have not yet done so to join us.”
This move comes shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron declared his intention to officially recognize Palestine in September—an announcement that drew sharp criticism from both Israel and the United States.
In a parallel statement, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer warned on Tuesday that the United Kingdom could also formally recognize Palestine by September, unless Israel takes meaningful steps, including agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza.
According to Arab News, nine countries—including Australia, Canada, and New Zealand—that have not yet recognized Palestine have shown signs of re-evaluating their stance, expressing a “willingness or positive consideration” toward eventual recognition.
The France-Arab summit also saw participation from 17 nations, along with representatives from the European Union and the Arab League. The gathering jointly called for an end to the destructive conflict in Palestinian territories, urging the disarmament of Hamas and the termination of its control over Gaza.
This growing international push signals a potential turning point in the long-stalled Middle East peace process, with diplomatic momentum shifting toward formal recognition of Palestinian statehood.
