UN Conference on Israel-Palestinian Issue Postponed Amid Regional Military Escalation
The postponement follows Israel's significant military action against Iran, complicating diplomatic efforts towards a two-state solution.
PARIS/RIYADH: A United Nations conference aimed at advancing a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, has been postponed due to Israel's recent military actions against Iran, as announced by French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday.
The decision to delay the conference comes after a series of airstrikes launched by Israel on Friday, which targeted Iran's underground nuclear facilities and reportedly resulted in considerable casualties among military commanders and nuclear scientists, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations.
Macron emphasized that this delay would not alter the commitment of France to pursue the recognition of the State of Palestine.
He noted that logistical challenges resulting from the military escalation would prevent key stakeholders, including representatives from the Palestinian Authority and Saudi Arabia’s leadership, from attending the conference as initially scheduled.
The meeting had been planned for June 17-20 in New York, with the goal of outlining a framework for establishing a Palestinian state while simultaneously ensuring security for Israel.
Macron indicated that efforts would be made to reschedule the gathering as soon as circumstances allowed.
The potential recognition of a Palestinian state by France was highlighted by Macron, who had previously indicated that such a move could be presented at the conference, despite opposition from Israel.
The diplomatic landscape surrounding the conference became increasingly complex following a recent diplomatic cable sent by the administration of US President Donald Trump, which advised countries against attending the meeting and warned of potential repercussions for those taking actions against Israel.
Macron's evolving position reflects a heightened sense of urgency in response to Israel's intensified military operations in Gaza and increasing violence faced by Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.
Diplomats noted that if a collective diplomatic effort could be achieved, it could strengthen the movement towards Palestinian statehood, which has often been characterized by the activism of smaller nations critical of Israel.
The decision to delay the conference comes after a series of airstrikes launched by Israel on Friday, which targeted Iran's underground nuclear facilities and reportedly resulted in considerable casualties among military commanders and nuclear scientists, marking a significant escalation in tensions between the two nations.
Macron emphasized that this delay would not alter the commitment of France to pursue the recognition of the State of Palestine.
He noted that logistical challenges resulting from the military escalation would prevent key stakeholders, including representatives from the Palestinian Authority and Saudi Arabia’s leadership, from attending the conference as initially scheduled.
The meeting had been planned for June 17-20 in New York, with the goal of outlining a framework for establishing a Palestinian state while simultaneously ensuring security for Israel.
Macron indicated that efforts would be made to reschedule the gathering as soon as circumstances allowed.
The potential recognition of a Palestinian state by France was highlighted by Macron, who had previously indicated that such a move could be presented at the conference, despite opposition from Israel.
The diplomatic landscape surrounding the conference became increasingly complex following a recent diplomatic cable sent by the administration of US President Donald Trump, which advised countries against attending the meeting and warned of potential repercussions for those taking actions against Israel.
Macron's evolving position reflects a heightened sense of urgency in response to Israel's intensified military operations in Gaza and increasing violence faced by Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.
Diplomats noted that if a collective diplomatic effort could be achieved, it could strengthen the movement towards Palestinian statehood, which has often been characterized by the activism of smaller nations critical of Israel.
