France Saudi Arabia Lead Summit Recognizing Palestinian State Amid Gaza War Escalation

A summit in New York, convened by France and Saudi Arabia ahead of the UN General Assembly, is set to see several countries formally recognize Palestinian statehood in a significant diplomatic move amid the ongoing war in Gaza. This wave of recognition, including by key Western allies like Britain, Canada, and Australia, marks a strategic shift away from the longstanding US-backed status quo and signals growing international support for a two-state solution, despite Israeli opposition. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognitions as rewarding terrorism and reiterated his rejection of a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, warning of potential punitive actions against countries involved. The United States, under President Trump, has opposed the recognition efforts and will not participate in the related international peace conference, emphasizing concerns that such moves undermine negotiations and embolden Hamas. European and Arab countries view the conflict increasingly in terms of regional stability and domestic political pressures, especially following the heavy civilian toll in Gaza, prompting calls for an end to hostilities and humanitarian aid access. This diplomatic cascade highlights a growing divide between US policy and its traditional allies, potentially isolating the US while reinvigorating Palestinian political aspirations on the global stage.