France and Saudi Arabia Push New Roadmap for Two-State Solution at UN
Against the backdrop of the devastating war in Gaza, France and Saudi Arabia unveiled a new plan at the UN General Assembly to revive hopes for a two-state solution. But strong opposition from the U.S. and Israel looms as the main obstacle.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict once again dominated the United Nations General Assembly, with France and Saudi Arabia calling for renewed urgency to establish a Palestinian state. Their roadmap aims to end the war in Gaza, secure the release of hostages, and gradually build a demilitarized Palestinian state with international support.
Western recognition gains momentum
The move comes as the UK, Canada, and Australia formally recognized Palestine, joining nearly 150 nations that already have. France is also expected to announce its recognition this week. Yet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has warned of unilateral retaliation, including the annexation of parts of the West Bank, while Washington has prevented Palestinian officials from even attending the Assembly.
Core elements of the plan
The Franco-Saudi proposal calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, a full Israeli withdrawal, and the transfer of power from Hamas to a politically independent committee under the Palestinian Authority. International actors would oversee reconstruction, provide security support, and facilitate regional peace — possibly including Saudi normalization of ties with Israel.
Tough challenges ahead
The plan sidesteps some of the most divisive issues, including final borders, the fate of settlements, refugees’ right of return, and the status of Jerusalem. It also relies heavily on the Palestinian Authority, which faces widespread criticism from Palestinians for corruption and lack of legitimacy. Whether Hamas would lay down arms and accept exclusion from future governance remains uncertain.
Global reactions
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stressed that peace in the Middle East is impossible without a two-state solution, saying, “The subjugation of the Palestinian people without rights is intolerable.” Meanwhile, the UAE warned that Israeli annexation of the West Bank would cross a “red line” for the region.
