Dozens of world leaders are set to gather in New York for a summit co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia aimed at bolstering a two-state solution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The meeting is expected to see several countries formally recognize a Palestinian state.
The summit comes as support for a Palestinian state grows, with Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal having already announced their recognition on Sunday. France and five other nations are expected to follow suit today.
Israel's Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, condemned the event, calling it a “circus” and a move that “is actually rewarding terrorism.” Israeli officials have stated that in response to these diplomatic actions, Israel is considering annexing parts of Judea and Samaria and imposing bilateral measures against countries like France. The U.S. has also warned of possible consequences for any country that takes measures against Israel.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, who has been a driving force behind the initiative, called the declaration a "roadmap that begins with the top priorities: a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the unimpeded entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza."
He added that once those goals are achieved, the next step would be a plan for the day after.
