The High-Level International Conference on a Solution to the Palestinian Issue and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution is an international meeting held on 22 September 2025 at the United Nations headquarters in New York. During the conference, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, numerous countries recognized the State of Palestine. The New York Declaration adopted at the conclusion of the conference was approved by 142 votes. The document affirmed commitment to the two-state solution, a lasting ceasefire, unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
At the conference held in New York on 22 September 2025, several countries announced for the first time their decision to recognize Palestine. In this context, the leaders of France, Monaco, Belgium, San Marino, Luxembourg and Malta declared in their speeches that their countries officially recognize the State of Palestine.
General Framework
The High-Level International Conference on a Solution to the Palestinian Issue and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution was held on 22 September 2025 within the framework of the United Nations General Assembly. The conference, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, served as a continuation of a three-day meeting held in July 2025. It was convened with the aim of achieving a peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue and implementing the two-state solution. The main agenda items included Israel’s attacks on the Gaza Strip, illegal settlements in the West Bank, and the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The conference also served as a platform for numerous countries to announce their recognition of the State of Palestine. These decisions were brought to the agenda to accelerate the two-state solution process within the international community. The primary objective of the meeting was to demonstrate international resolve to end the war in Gaza, establish a lasting ceasefire, ensure unhindered humanitarian access, and halt settlement activities in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
The New York Declaration, adopted under the auspices of the UN General Assembly, emerged as the principal outcome of the conference, with the goal of establishing an independent, sovereign, economically sustainable and democratic State of Palestine. Despite the boycott by the United States and Israel, the conference was widely attended and received broad support from a significant portion of the international community.
Participation and Organization
The conference took place on 22 September 2025 at the United Nations General Assembly building in New York. French President Emmanuel Macron and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan served as co-chairs of the event.
A broad participation was achieved, including heads of state and government, foreign ministers and high-level delegations. Representatives from Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East attended the conference. Some participating countries announced their recognition of the State of Palestine, while others made conditional commitments in this direction.
The United States and Israel boycotted the conference. Israel characterized the meeting as an attempt to reward terrorism. The United States refrained from participating, aligning itself with Israel’s position.
As part of the conference organization, security measures in New York were raised to the highest level, with the area surrounding the UN building and the Manhattan district closed off by police and security forces.
Statements and Speeches at the Conference
France
French President Emmanuel Macron, in his speech at the conference, declared that France officially recognizes the State of Palestine. Macron stated, “The time has come to stop the war in Gaza,” and emphasized that the failure to build a just and lasting peace in the Middle East is a shared responsibility of the international community.
Macron called for the immediate and unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas and urged Israel to end all its military operations in Gaza and permit unhindered humanitarian access. He added, “Remaining faithful to France’s historical commitment to the Middle East, I today declare France’s recognition of the State of Palestine.”
Macron affirmed that this recognition does not diminish Israel’s rights but rather serves its security. He stated that the decision would enable “constructive negotiations” between Israel and Palestine, break the cycle of violence, and open the door to a mechanism that ensures peace and security for all parties involved.
President Macron also argued that Hamas must be disarmed and stated that Gaza’s security must be entrusted to a transitional government that includes the Palestinian administration. “I may decide to open an embassy in the State of Palestine once all hostages held in Gaza are released and a ceasefire is achieved,” he declared.
Macron said that with European partners, he would link the level of cooperation with Israel to the steps Israel takes to end the war and begin peace negotiations. He also stated that they expect Arab and Muslim countries to recognize Israel and establish normal relations as soon as the State of Palestine is established.
Finally, Macron emphasized that treating the Palestinian people with justice and recognizing the State of Palestine is now an unavoidable step. “Nothing can justify the continuation of the war in Gaza anymore. What drives us is urgency,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron speaks at the High-Level International Conference on Finding a Solution to the Palestinian Issue and Implementing the Two-State Solution at the UN Headquarters in New York, 22 September 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan spoke on behalf of his country at the conference. Farhan recalled Saudi Arabia’s long-standing support for the two-state solution and stated that only through this formula could a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian issue be achieved.
The minister stressed the need to protect the historical and legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. He highlighted that Israel’s attacks, occupation policies and settlement activities harm regional peace. Farhan affirmed that Arab and Muslim countries would continue their support and that the international community must also assume responsibility in this direction.
During his speech, he also welcomed the decisions by France and other countries to recognize Palestine and said these decisions would accelerate the implementation of the two-state solution. He announced Saudi Arabia’s full support for the New York Declaration adopted at the end of the conference, stating that the document provides a crucial framework for a ceasefire humanitarian aid and the establishment of the State of Palestine.
Türkiye
Türkiye President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in his speech during the first session of the conference, emphasized the scale of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Erdoğan stated that due to Israel’s escalating attacks over the past two years, a major humanitarian catastrophe has unfolded in the region. “The massacre in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of more than 65,000 people, continues with full brutality. No one with a conscience can accept what is happening. Worse still, no one can remain silent in the face of such a genocide,” he said.
President Erdoğan speaks at the High-Level International Conference on Palestine held at the UN, 22 September 2025 – (Anadolu Agency)
Criticizing the policies of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, Erdoğan said, “The goal of the Netanyahu government is to make the establishment of a State of Palestine impossible and to force the Palestinian people into exile as much as possible.” He stressed that the international community bears legal and moral responsibility and called for an end to settlement expansion in the West Bank, the demolitions in East Jerusalem and other actions that increase instability in the region.
Referring to growing awareness in the international public, Erdoğan said, “It is also a fact that today the Palestinian cause has become the property of the world. The presence here in this hall is the best proof of that. We are witnessing calls for ‘Free Palestine’ on the streets, in social media and in the press across Europe Asia America and Africa more than ever before.”
Evaluating steps toward recognition of the State of Palestine in his speech Erdoğan said, “In the midst of these negative developments it is of critical and historic importance that a group of countries including members of the United Nations Security Council have decided to recognize the State of Palestine,” expressing his approval of this development.
Emphasizing the need to declare a ceasefire Erdoğan said, “A ceasefire must be declared now. The declaration of a ceasefire requires unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Gaza is an inseparable part of Palestine and belongs to the Palestinians. The Palestinians themselves will determine how to govern their own land.”
Erdoğan also stated that the time has come for Palestine to achieve full membership in the United Nations, emphasizing the need to enhance Palestine’s national capacity, strengthen financial and technical support, and sustain the activities of organizations such as UNRWA. Summarizing Türkiye’s position, Erdoğan said, “As Türkiye, we will persistently continue our struggle until a Palestinian state is established with its capital in East Jerusalem, based on the 1967 borders and possessing geographical integrity.”
Palestinian Authority
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas participated in the conference via video link. Unable to travel to New York due to the United States’ refusal to issue visas to members of the Palestinian delegation, Abbas delivered his speech online.
Abbas emphasized in his address that the Palestinian state is the only legitimate authority responsible for governance and security in Gaza. He asserted that neither Hamas nor any other group will assume control of Gaza, and that these groups must surrender their weapons to the Palestinian Authority. He underscored this point by stating, “The Palestinian state is the sole legitimate authority entitled to full responsibility for governance and security in Gaza.”
Abbas called for a lasting ceasefire to alleviate the humanitarian situation in Gaza. He demanded unhindered access of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, the reciprocal release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees, and the withdrawal of the Israeli military from Gaza. He also stressed that the reconstruction of Gaza must begin without delay.
Appealing for international cooperation, Abbas declared that the Palestinian Authority is ready to work alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, Saudi Arabia, France, the United Nations, and other actors. He thanked countries that have recognized the State of Palestine and urged those that have not yet done so to extend recognition. He called for support toward Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations.
In his speech, Abbas also outlined comprehensive reform commitments. He stated that the Palestinian government is pursuing a reform agenda grounded in transparency and the rule of law, that a draft constitution will be prepared within three months after the cessation of hostilities, and that presidential and parliamentary elections will be held within one year.
Abbas condemned Israel’s “Greater Israel” rhetoric, its annexation attempts, settler violence, and violations of holy sites. He criticized attacks against Qatar and other Arab countries, affirming his support for their sovereignty. He addressed the Palestinian people with the words, “The dawn of freedom and independence is ultimately inevitable,” and extended a call for peace to Israelis, saying, “Our future and your future lie in peace; let violence and war end.”
Japan
Japan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iwaichi Takeishi, outlined his country’s position in his address at the conference. Takeishi stated Japan’s opposition to Israel’s unilateral actions, emphasizing that illegal settlement activities are unequivocally unacceptable.
The minister called for the release of hostages held by Hamas and affirmed that the disarmament of Hamas is essential for the peace process. In this context, he stated that recognition of Palestine for Japan is not a question of “whether” but of “when.”
Takeishi reiterated Japan’s continued support for the two-state solution and stressed the need for both parties to assume responsibility. He warned that if Israel continues to take steps that obstruct the two-state solution, Japan may consider adopting new measures.
Germany
Germany’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, stated at the conference that the two-state solution remains the only viable path under international law and United Nations resolutions. Wadephul declared that Germany will not recognize any changes to the 1967 borders. He also reaffirmed Germany’s position that Israeli settlement activities are illegal and that Germany will adhere to the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.
Netherlands
Netherlands’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, David van Weel, stated that his country regards ending the war in Gaza as its top priority. Van Weel affirmed that the Netherlands will recognize Palestine in the future and insisted that Hamas must not play any role in Palestinian governance. He argued that the two-state solution can only become viable once violence ceases.
Denmark
Denmark’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, stated that Israel’s current policies are increasingly undermining the two-state solution. Rasmussen emphasized that the recognition of Palestine now lies in the hands of the Palestinians, not Israel. Denmark declared it is prepared to recognize Palestine provided hostages are released and Hamas is disarmed.
Slovenia
Slovenia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tanja Fajon, addressed the situation in Gaza during her speech at the conference. Fajon described the humanitarian crisis in the region as a man-made catastrophe.
The minister noted that images of children dying of starvation have provoked strong reactions within the international community and stated that this situation constitutes genocide. She underscored Slovenia’s view that recognition of the State of Palestine is a crucial step in this context. Fajon called for the immediate and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and reaffirmed that the two-state solution is the only viable path to sustainable peace.
Italy
Italy’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Antonio Tajani, stated in his address at the conference that the humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached catastrophic proportions. Tajani emphasized the need to protect civilians and drew attention to the widespread famine and destruction of infrastructure in the region.
Tajani stated that they condemned the attack on the Hamas negotiation delegation in Doha. Italy, emphasizing the importance of Qatar’s mediation efforts, called for increased international support to secure a ceasefire. The minister declared that his country supports the Palestinian people’s right to statehood and affirmed Italy’s readiness to contribute to the diplomatic process within the framework of a two-state solution.
Qatar
Qatar’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sultan Saad al-Murayhi, said during his speech at the conference that the Palestinian issue has reached a historic turning point. Murayhi stressed that the international community can no longer delay recognizing the Palestinian people’s right to independence and statehood. He also underscored the urgency of ensuring unhindered humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
UAE’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Khalifa Shaheen al-Marar, announced that his country welcomes the recognition of the State of Palestine. Al-Marar called on other nations to take similar steps. The UAE affirmed that the two-state solution is the foundation of international peace.
Algeria
Algerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, stated that the time has come to take concrete steps toward the establishment of the State of Palestine. Attaf emphasized that the international community must go beyond verbal support and take practical, on-the-ground actions in addition to recognition.
Brazil
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, in his speech at the conference, characterized the attacks in Gaza as genocide. Lula da Silva stated that international law has been violated and that the events unfolding are unacceptable. He noted that more than 50,000 children have been maimed as a result of these attacks. Highlighting the humanitarian dimension of this crisis, Lula da Silva stressed that the international community must assume responsibility.
Lula da Silva also called for limiting the veto power within the UN Security Council, arguing that this power has delayed peace, particularly in blocking ceasefire resolutions concerning Gaza. Brazil affirmed that the two-state solution is the only viable path to lasting peace.
Belgium
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced that his country officially recognizes the State of Palestine. De Wever stated that Belgium has always supported the two-state solution and reaffirmed this commitment by being among the signatories of the New York Declaration. He emphasized Belgium’s delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, noting that over 190 tons of assistance have been delivered by air in recent months and an additional €12.5 million has been allocated to the humanitarian aid budget. Referring to Israeli ministers’ statements that the State of Palestine can never be established, De Wever asserted that recognition is a response affirming the Palestinian people’s right to their own state. He also indicated that Belgium will deepen diplomatic relations once all hostages are released and organizations such as Hamas are removed from governance.
Monaco
Prince Albert II of Monaco announced that his country recognizes the State of Palestine. The Prince stated that Monaco has consistently supported both Israel’s right to live within secure borders and the Palestinian people’s right to an independent and democratic state. “Today, we wish to reaffirm our unwavering support for Israel’s existence and simultaneously recognize Palestine as a state under international law,” he said. The Prince emphasized that peace must be built not by decree but by shared will, and underscored that the two-state solution paves the way for lasting stability.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden announced that his country officially recognizes the State of Palestine. Frieden stated that this is not the end of a process but the beginning of a commitment to diplomacy, dialogue, and coexistence. He noted that recognition alone is insufficient but can help revive the political horizon. “Let our decision be a message to grieving families and a source of hope for children and those who have not given up,” he said, highlighting the symbolic dimension of the recognition.
Malta
Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela announced in his speech that his country officially recognizes the State of Palestine. Abela said this decision is a tangible expression of Malta’s commitment to a peaceful two-state solution. Malta supports the “one state, one government” approach and called for the immediate cessation of Israeli attacks on civilians and infrastructure. He demanded an end to illegal settlements and associated violence in the West Bank and emphasized the imperative of delivering humanitarian aid to civilians suffering from hunger in Gaza.
Portugal
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa announced that his country officially recognizes the State of Palestine. De Sousa stated that this decision is the only path to lasting peace in the Middle East, saying, “Recognizing the State of Palestine is recognizing peace itself. Tomorrow would be too late.” The President reaffirmed Portugal’s longstanding support for the two-state solution and asserted that peace between Palestine and Israel can only be achieved through dialogue.
Andorra
Andorran Minister of Foreign Affairs, Imma Tor Faus, announced her country’s decision to recognize the State of Palestine. Faus stated that the two-state solution is under grave threat and that recognition can no longer be delayed.
New York Declaration
The most significant outcome of the conference was the New York Declaration. Adopted on 22 September 2025, the declaration was endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly with 142 votes. It is stated that the document reaffirms the international community’s resolve for a two-state solution and outlines a practical roadmap for implementation.
The declaration contains “concrete, irreversible, and time-bound steps.” Within this framework, the goal is to realize Palestine as an independent, democratic, sovereign, and economically sustainable state.
The document calls first for the declaration of a permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages. It also demands the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the region. The declaration states that the international community must assume responsibility for the “day after” the conflict and proposes the establishment of a UN Security Council-approved temporary international stability mission.
The declaration identifies the reunification of Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority as a primary objective. In this context, it supports the Palestinian Authority’s “One State, One Government, One Law, One Weapon” policy and stresses the need to end Hamas’s governance in Gaza, disarm the group, and transfer its weapons to the Palestinian Authority.
The document also records the Palestinian Authority’s reform program, which includes:
- Abolishing payments to prisoners,
- Reforming the education curriculum under EU oversight and with support from Saudi Arabia,
- Holding general and presidential elections within one year after the ceasefire.
The declaration also addresses the economic dimension. A mechanism called the “Emergency Coalition for Palestine” has been established to provide urgent budgetary support to the Palestinian Authority. It demands the immediate release of Palestinian tax revenues withheld by Israel and proposes revising the Paris Protocol to establish a new financial arrangement.
The New York Declaration also includes calls directed at Israel. It urges Israel to halt its occupation, settlement activities, land seizures, and annexation attempts. It specifically demands the immediate cancellation of the E1 project and all expansion plans in the West Bank. The declaration further states that Israel must provide an explicit commitment to the two-state solution.
Finally, the declaration proposes a regional peace architecture. Inspired by models such as ASEAN and OSCE, it calls for the creation of a regional security structure, the launch of new peace initiatives along the Lebanon-Israel and Syria-Israel borders, and the pursuit of a comprehensive Middle East peace based on the Arab Peace Initiative.
