A wave of Western recognition for the State of Palestine has been met with strong praise from Islamic countries and organisations, as well as condemnation from Israel and its allies. The developments unfolded during a high-level summit at the United Nations, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France, aimed at reviving the long-stalled two-state solution.
At the summit, France, Belgium, Andorra, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco formally announced their recognition of Palestinian sovereignty. The move follows similar decisions in recent months by the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal. Diplomats from across the world gave a standing ovation to the Western countries defying Israeli opposition.
A Middle Eastern delegate told TRT World outside the UN headquarters, “It took genocide in Gaza to spur many European countries to make this landmark move. Though belated, it is a welcome step.” The summit, officially titled the High-Level International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, saw hundreds of diplomats in attendance.
Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and Turkey, welcomed the recognitions. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud called on more countries to take similar steps, saying such moves would support efforts towards a two-state solution and lasting peace in the Middle East. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described the recognitions as “significant and historic,” and condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) also described the recognitions as “an important historical development towards achieving justice and international legitimacy.” The Palestinian Authority and President Mahmoud Abbas hailed France’s decision as “historic and courageous,” with Abbas pledging to hold elections in 2026.
Israel and the United States boycotted the event, with Israeli officials labelling it a “circus” and “performative.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that a Palestinian state would not be established, while Israel’s UN envoy warned of consequences.
The summit marked a significant moment for Palestinian diplomacy, with 157 UN member states now recognising Palestine. The focus now shifts to the UN General Debate, where further calls for recognition are expected.
