Title: Upcoming Conference in Saudi Arabia Aims for Steps Toward Palestinian State Recognition
A significant conference scheduled for June 17-20 in Saudi Arabia, initially envisioned as a platform to secure broad recognition of a Palestinian state by Western nations, is now focusing on more achievable objectives. Diplomats indicate that the conference will aim to outline steps toward recognition rather than a formal declaration.
Originally, the gathering was expected to culminate in a joint recognition of Palestine by multiple countries, including key UN Security Council members like France and the UK. French President Emmanuel Macron, a co-sponsor of the event, has emphasized that recognizing Palestine is both a "moral duty and a political necessity." However, recent discussions between French officials and Israeli counterparts have clarified that the conference will not serve as a moment for outright recognition.
Instead, recognition is now viewed as a potential outcome of a broader effort that may include achieving a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, securing the release of Israeli hostages, reforming the Palestinian Authority, and initiating economic reconstruction. France and Saudi Arabia have established eight working groups to develop the foundational elements for a two-state solution. Additionally, Macron will host a civil society conference under the Paris Peace Forum banner just before the main event.
The UK is playing a pivotal role by overseeing the humanitarian working group, while other groups focus on reconstruction, the economic viability of a Palestinian state, promoting international law, peace narratives, and envisioning the benefits of a peaceful settlement for both parties.
While both Israel and the US have participated in preliminary meetings, their silence has sparked speculation about a possible boycott of the main conference. Israel has historically resisted efforts to grant statehood to Palestinians. Recent polls suggest that only 20% of the Israeli electorate supports a two-state solution, with a significant portion of Jewish Israelis favoring the transfer of Arab citizens of Israel to other countries. Furthermore, Israel has announced plans for 22 new settlements in the West Bank, marking the largest expansion in decades. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz described this move as a strategic measure to hinder the establishment of a Palestinian state.
Macron’s initiative has faced criticism, with Israel’s ambassador to France labeling it "disastrous." Previously, global recognition of a Palestinian state was perceived as a consequence of the failed two-state solution attempts in the 1990s. However, European governments increasingly doubt Israel’s intentions to ease its control over Palestinians, viewing recognition as a potential leverage point for change.
Countries like Ireland, Spain, and Norway recognized a Palestinian state last year, while Macron has made it clear that he would only support recognition in the absence of Hamas—a stance echoed by the UK. The Elders, a group of former senior UN diplomats, have urged Macron to view recognition as a crucial step toward peace, advocating for it to be addressed independently of negotiations surrounding Palestinian statehood and disarmament of Hamas.
Anne-Claire Legendre, an advisor to Macron, stressed the need for the conference to mark a critical turning point for implementing the two-state solution. She met with both Israeli officials and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa to discuss the conference’s goals and Israel’s long-term vision for the region.
The British Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, faces increasing pressure from backbenchers to take a tougher stance against Israel and clarify the conditions for UK recognition of a Palestinian state. Middle East Minister Hamish Falconer noted that UK views are evolving, influenced by the Israeli government’s rhetoric and a growing sentiment that they are moving away from a commitment to a two-state solution.
Amid these discussions, a rising number of Conservative MPs are advocating for recognition of Palestine, including former Attorney General Sir Jeremy Wright. France hopes that Western recognition of a Palestinian state could be balanced by Muslim nations normalizing relations with Israel. However, Saudi Arabia’s recognition of Israel remains unlikely, as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has consistently accused Israel of committing genocide—a sentiment echoed by much of the Saudi public.
This upcoming conference in Saudi Arabia represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding Palestinian statehood and the quest for lasting peace in the region.
