On Monday, July 28, 2025, a key United Nations conference opened with hopes for progress on the long-debated two-state solution for Israel and Palestine. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called the meeting "a rare and indispensable opportunity," expressing hope that it could become a decisive turning point toward lasting peace in the region.

Saudi Arabia, one of the event's co-hosts, reaffirmed its stance through Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, who emphasized that the Palestinian Authority, Fatah, and the PLO remain the only legitimate representatives of the Palestinian people. He stressed that this position has not changed and continues to shape the kingdom's foreign policy.

France, another co-host of the two-day conference, reiterated its growing support for Palestinian statehood. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated that France plans to recognize a Palestinian state at the U.N. General Assembly in September.

Barrot also revealed that Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had recently taken a significant step toward peace. According to him, Abbas wrote a formal letter condemning the October 7 attacks, calling for the release of all hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and the group's exclusion from Gaza's future leadership.

This gesture by Abbas was hailed as a critical message in support of peace and governance reform in Gaza. It marks the first time Abbas has openly taken a firm stand against military violence and Hamas control.

The U.N. conference continues to attract attention from global leaders, diplomats, and observers, hoping it signals a new era for Middle East diplomacy.

Source: https://www.jns.org/us-skips-un-two-state-solution-event-but-hosts-france-and-saudi-say-they-align-with-trump/