Global Summit on Two-State Solution: Six More Nations to Recognize Palestine
Israel has promised to respond to the wave of recognitions announced on the eve of the UN General Assembly and condemns the assembly as a “circus.” Abbas will make an appearance via video.
New York, September 22, 2025 – France and Saudi Arabia are set to convene dozens of world leaders on Monday to discuss a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. Several countries are expected to formally recognize a Palestinian state during the summit, a move likely to provoke strong responses from Israel and the United States.
Israel and the US have announced they will boycott the summit, with Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon calling it a “circus” and claiming it rewards terrorism.
On Sunday, the UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia formally recognized Palestine, and six additional nations are expected to follow suit ahead of the UN General Assembly addresses.
Israeli Response and Regional Concerns
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected both the recognitions and the concept of Palestinian statehood, promising a response upon returning from the UN. Some Israeli ministers are advocating for annexation of parts of the West Bank, a move Saudi Arabia has warned would have “major implications,” while the UAE has described it as a “red line.”
The US State Department described the recognitions as largely “performative,” emphasizing that its priorities remain hostage release, Israel’s security, and regional stability free from Hamas influence. Washington has also cautioned about possible consequences for nations acting against Israel, including France, whose President Emmanuel Macron is hosting the summit.
Context of the Summit
The summit comes as Israel continues a ground offensive in Gaza City, nearly two years into the conflict triggered by the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attack. Western nations recognizing Palestine have cited the urgent need to act before the two-state solution becomes untenable, while Israel has criticized the move as rewarding terrorism.
Earlier this month, the UN General Assembly endorsed a seven-page declaration outlining “tangible, time-bound, and irreversible steps” toward a two-state solution, while condemning Hamas and calling on the group to surrender and disarm.
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized that the New York Declaration focuses on immediate priorities: a ceasefire, hostage release, and unimpeded humanitarian aid into Gaza, with longer-term solutions to be addressed at Monday’s discussions.
Palestinian and Diplomatic Perspectives
French President Macron’s earlier announcement to recognize Palestine has energized a movement largely driven by smaller nations historically critical of Israel. Some nations recognizing Palestine have indicated conditions for normalization, contingent on reforms by the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority.
Palestinian officials, including President Mahmoud Abbas, will not attend in person due to US visa restrictions but are expected to join via video. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will also participate virtually despite co-hosting.
Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin stated: “The world is saying out loud a Palestinian state, and now they need to materialize these measures.”
Read Also: Who Recognizes Palestine and Who Doesn’t? Understanding the Geopolitical Stakes
FAQ: World Summit on Two-State Solution – Six More Nations to Recognize Palestine
1. What is the World Summit on the Two-State Solution about?
The summit, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, brings together global leaders to discuss the two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. The event aims to rally support for Palestinian statehood and address peace efforts in the region.
2. Which countries have recognized Palestine recently?
On September 21, 2025, the UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia formally recognized Palestine. During the summit, six more countries are expected to follow suit.
3. Will Israel and the US participate in the summit?
No. Both Israel and the United States announced they will boycott the summit. Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon described it as a “circus” and claimed it rewards terrorism.
4. How has Israel responded to these recognitions?
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the recognitions and the idea of Palestinian statehood. Some Israeli ministers are considering annexing parts of the West Bank in response.
5. What is the US stance on these recognitions?
The US State Department called the recognitions “performative,” emphasizing its focus on hostage release, Israel’s security, and regional stability free from Hamas. Washington has also warned of possible consequences for countries acting against Israel, including France.
6. Why is the summit being held now?
The summit follows nearly two years of conflict in Gaza, triggered by the Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Supporters of Palestinian statehood argue that urgent action is needed before the two-state solution becomes unfeasible.
7. What role does the UN General Assembly play?
Earlier in September 2025, the UN General Assembly endorsed a seven-page declaration outlining “tangible, time-bound, and irreversible steps” toward a two-state solution, while condemning Hamas and calling for its disarmament.
8. Will Palestinian leaders attend the summit?
Palestinian officials, including President Mahmoud Abbas, will not attend in person due to US visa restrictions, but they are expected to participate via video.
9. What are the key priorities of the summit?
According to France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, the summit will focus first on:
Ceasefire in Gaza
Release of hostages
Unhindered humanitarian aid delivery
Long-term discussions on a two-state solution will follow once these priorities are addressed.
10. How are countries planning to recognize Palestine?
Some nations have announced conditional recognition, linking normalization of diplomatic ties to reforms by the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority. Others are recognizing Palestine unconditionally.
11. What is the Palestinian Authority’s response?
Palestinian Authority Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin stated: “The world is saying out loud a Palestinian state, and now they need to materialize these measures.”
12. Which countries are expected to recognize Palestine during the summit?
While the exact six countries have not been officially confirmed, reports indicate that France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and other nations are likely to follow the recognitions made by the UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia.
13. Why are Israel and the US opposed to the summit?
Israel and the US view the recognitions as politically motivated and potentially rewarding terrorism, given ongoing hostilities and hostage situations involving Hamas. Israel argues that unilateral recognitions undermine direct peace negotiations.
14. What is the significance of France’s involvement?
France has taken a leading role, with President Emmanuel Macron announcing recognition of Palestine in July 2025. France aims to boost momentum for the two-state solution, particularly among larger Western nations that previously refrained from recognition.
15. How does this summit affect the Middle East peace process?
The summit could reshape diplomatic alignments in the region, pressuring Israel and the Palestinian Authority to engage more seriously in peace negotiations. It also signals growing international support for Palestinian statehood.
16. What are the possible repercussions for countries recognizing Palestine?
The US administration has warned that nations taking unilateral recognition steps could face diplomatic or economic consequences. Israel is reportedly considering bilateral measures against France as a response.
17. Why is West Bank annexation controversial?
Some Israeli ministers advocate annexing parts of the West Bank in reaction to recognitions. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have called annexation a major red line, warning it could escalate tensions and destabilize the region.
18. What are the humanitarian concerns in Gaza?
Nearly two years into conflict, Gaza faces severe humanitarian crises. The summit emphasizes unhindered humanitarian aid delivery, including food, medical supplies, and safe passage for civilians.
19. Will Hamas be part of the discussions?
No. Hamas is not officially represented. The summit focuses on the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank and broader diplomatic recognition rather than direct engagement with Hamas.
20. How does international law view recognition of Palestine?
Recognition is largely political and symbolic. It does not automatically create a state under international law but strengthens Palestine’s legitimacy on the global stage and provides equal footing with Israel in diplomatic and legal matters.
21. What is the timeline for implementing a two-state solution?
The summit outlines a phased approach:
Immediate: ceasefire, hostages release, humanitarian aid
Next: roadmap for longer-term solutions, negotiations on borders, governance, and recognition
22. How will Palestinian leaders participate despite visa restrictions?
President Mahmoud Abbas and other officials will join virtually via video, as US visa restrictions prevent in-person attendance. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will also participate remotely.
23. Why is this summit significant now?
The recent escalation in Gaza, ongoing Israeli offensives, and growing international support for Palestinian recognition have created a critical window for advancing a two-state solution before the concept becomes less viable.
24. How can this summit influence future UN decisions?
The outcomes may shape UN resolutions, encourage additional nations to recognize Palestine, and create a broader international coalition supporting Palestinian statehood and peace negotiations.
25. What is the two-state solution?
The two-state solution envisions Israel and Palestine as two separate sovereign states coexisting peacefully. The idea includes clearly defined borders, security arrangements, and mutual recognition.
26. How does the summit address the hostages issue?
A key priority is the safe release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, alongside humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza. This is considered an essential first step before broader political discussions.
27. How do conditional recognitions work?
Some countries plan to recognize Palestine conditionally, meaning normalization of diplomatic relations will depend on the Palestinian Authority implementing promised reforms and governance improvements in the West Bank.
28. What role does Saudi Arabia play in the summit?
Saudi Arabia is co-hosting the summit and acts as a regional mediator. The kingdom has warned Israel against West Bank annexation, citing major political and security implications.
29. Why is France pushing for recognition?
France, under President Emmanuel Macron, aims to strengthen the legitimacy of Palestinian statehood and encourage larger nations to support the two-state framework rather than leaving it to smaller countries critical of Israel.
30. What are the potential Israeli countermeasures?
Israel may take bilateral actions against countries recognizing Palestine, including diplomatic pressure or economic measures. France, as host, is specifically mentioned as a potential target for such measures.
31. How will virtual participation work?
Palestinian and Saudi leaders will join via secure video link, ensuring their voices are represented despite travel or visa restrictions. This allows global participation without in-person attendance.
32. What is the significance of UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia recognizing Palestine?
These recognitions are historic because they include major Western nations and G7 members, marking a shift in international support toward Palestinian statehood.
33. How is Europe divided on Palestinian recognition?
Europe remains split, with some countries (Sweden, Norway, Spain, Ireland) recognizing Palestine and others (Italy, Germany) refusing. France’s support may sway additional nations toward recognition.
34. How might the summit influence future peace negotiations?
By gathering global leaders and recognizing Palestine, the summit could strengthen diplomatic leverage for the Palestinian Authority, create pressure on Israel, and reinvigorate negotiations toward a two-state solution.
35. Will the summit impact ongoing conflicts in Gaza?
While it doesn’t immediately halt fighting, the summit prioritizes ceasefire agreements and humanitarian aid, which may alleviate civilian suffering and create conditions for broader conflict resolution.
36. Why are some countries critical of unilateral recognition?
Countries like Israel and the US argue that recognition outside negotiations rewards terrorism, undermines bilateral talks, and may complicate long-term peace efforts.
37. How does this summit affect global diplomacy?
The event demonstrates a shift in international consensus, highlighting growing support for Palestinian statehood and potentially influencing UN resolutions, alliances, and regional policies.
38. What are the long-term goals of the summit?
Beyond immediate priorities, the summit seeks to:
Establish formal recognition of Palestine by more nations
Promote governance reforms in the Palestinian Authority
Strengthen the two-state solution framework under international law
Reduce regional tensions and create pathways for lasting peace
39. How do host nations France and Saudi Arabia balance international pressures?
Both nations are attempting to mediate between Western powers, Israel, and Arab countries, ensuring the summit advances recognition and peace without escalating conflict further.
40. How can the public stay informed about summit outcomes?
Global media, UN press releases, and statements from participating countries will provide updates on recognitions, agreements, and policy shifts following the summit.
41. What is the historical context behind Palestinian statehood?
The Palestinian leadership unilaterally declared a state in 1988, shortly after which Algeria became the first country to officially recognize it. Dozens of nations followed, and waves of recognition occurred in 2010–2011. The recent Gaza conflict has triggered another set of recognitions.
42. Why is timing critical for recognition now?
The Gaza war and ongoing hostilities have created urgency. Nations fear that without immediate action, the two-state solution could become politically impossible, especially amid debates over West Bank annexation.
43. What legal weight does recognition carry?
Recognition is primarily symbolic and political. While it doesn’t create a state automatically, it strengthens Palestine’s legitimacy under international law and allows it to participate more fully in diplomatic forums.
44. How are hostages influencing international positions?
The safety of Israeli hostages held by Hamas is a major factor shaping Western nations’ cautious or conditional recognitions. Any unilateral action is weighed against ongoing negotiations for their release.
45. How do regional Arab powers view recognition?
Arab nations generally support Palestinian recognition but caution against unilateral actions that might destabilize negotiations. Saudi Arabia and the UAE have set clear red lines regarding West Bank annexation.
46. What is the role of the UN General Assembly?
The UN General Assembly has endorsed a seven-page declaration outlining time-bound steps for a two-state solution, emphasizing ceasefire, hostages, and humanitarian aid. The summit seeks to build momentum and operationalize these steps.
47. How does France aim to influence Western countries?
France hopes to break the Western non-recognition consensus by leading with formal recognition and encouraging other European nations to follow suit, thereby expanding diplomatic support for Palestine.
48. What diplomatic risks do participating nations face?
Countries recognizing Palestine may face Israeli or US diplomatic pressure, economic implications, or challenges in bilateral relations, particularly if recognition is perceived as undermining Israel’s security interests.
49. How might Israel respond to new recognitions?
Israel has suggested possible bilateral retaliatory measures, particularly against France, and some government officials are advocating West Bank annexation as a countermeasure.
50. Are there conditions attached to recognition by some countries?
Yes. Certain nations have stated that diplomatic normalization will depend on Palestinian governance reforms, anti-corruption measures, and steps toward peace negotiations.
51. How does the summit affect Hamas?
Hamas is excluded from direct participation, as recognition and negotiations focus on the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank, though the movement remains a central security concern.
52. How will virtual participation impact negotiations?
Leaders joining remotely can present their positions and influence decisions without being physically present, ensuring inclusivity and broad international engagement despite travel or visa restrictions.
53. Why is international symbolism important in this context?
Recognition is largely symbolic but sends a powerful message: it legitimizes Palestine politically, increases pressure on Israel to negotiate, and signals global consensus on the two-state solution.
54. How could this summit affect future UN resolutions?
Success could lead to additional countries recognizing Palestine, shape future Security Council discussions, and encourage broader international diplomatic support for peace initiatives.
55. What are the main challenges to implementing the two-state solution?
Key obstacles include:
Disagreements over borders and West Bank annexation
Security concerns from Israel regarding Hamas
Political divisions within the Palestinian leadership
International disagreements over recognition and conditions
56. What immediate steps are expected after the summit?
Securing a ceasefire in Gaza
Ensuring release of hostages
Providing unimpeded humanitarian aid
Outlining longer-term measures for negotiations, governance, and recognition
57. How does this summit tie into the broader Middle East peace process?
The summit represents a high-level diplomatic effort to rejuvenate the stalled peace process, encourage global recognition, and balance pressures from Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and regional actors.
