France Announces UN Conference on Gaza Reconstruction and Recognition of Palestine

AUTHOR: M.J. GDNUS

A previously postponed United Nations conference later this month will focus on post-war plans for Gaza and preparations for the recognition of a Palestinian state by France and other countries, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said today.

France and Saudi Arabia had originally planned to hold the conference in New York from June 17 to 20, aiming to define a framework for a roadmap toward a Palestinian state, while also ensuring Israel’s security.

“The goal is to establish plans for post-war Gaza and to prepare the conditions for recognition of a Palestinian state by France and the countries that will join this effort,” Barrot said in Brussels ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers.

The conference was postponed under U.S. pressure and after the outbreak of a 12-day aerial conflict between Israel and Iran, during which regional airspace was closed, preventing the attendance of some Arab representatives. Diplomats said on Friday that the new date is set for July 28–29.

French President Emmanuel Macron was initially expected to attend the conference and had hinted at the possibility of recognizing a Palestinian state within the territories occupied by Israel—an idea Israel rejected.

Macron is no longer expected to attend, making it less likely that any major announcements will be made at the conference.

Diplomats say Macron faced resistance from allies such as the United Kingdom and Canada over his initiative to recognize a Palestinian state.

Since October 2023, Israel has been fighting Hamas in the Gaza Strip following a deadly attack by the Palestinian militant group on Israel. Talks in Doha are currently considering a U.S.-proposed 60-day ceasefire.