Dozens of world leaders will gather virtually on Monday for a high-stakes summit co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, aiming to galvanize international support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. At least six nations are expected to formally recognize Palestinian statehood during the event, a move Israeli officials have condemned as a "circus" while threatening retaliatory measures.
The summit comes amid heightened tensions as Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal recognized Palestine on Sunday, with France and five other states poised to follow suit. Several participating nations have indicated their recognition will be conditional on reforms within the Palestinian Authority, including modernization efforts outlined in President Mahmoud Abbas’s letter to French leader Emmanuel Macron earlier this year.
Israel and the United States have announced a boycott of the proceedings, with Israeli officials considering annexation of parts of the West Bank and targeted measures against France. U.S. representatives have warned of "consequences" for countries taking action against Israel.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin emphasized the urgency of concrete action: "The world is saying out loud a Palestinian state and we need to materialize it." However, logistical challenges persist—Abbas and Palestinian delegates will participate remotely after the U.S. declined to issue visas, while Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s virtual attendance required special UN approval.
The developments highlight deepening global divisions over Middle East peace efforts, with economic analysts warning of potential market volatility and cultural observers noting implications for regional stability. As diplomatic maneuvers intensify, the summit’s outcomes could reshape investment landscapes and geopolitical alliances across Asia and beyond.
