More than 140 world leaders are set to gather in New York next week for the annual United Nations General Assembly, where discussions on the future of Gaza and the Palestinian cause are expected to dominate. The high-level meeting will unfold against the backdrop of a deep humanitarian crisis in Gaza, two years into Israel’s military campaign launched after the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023.
One notable absence will be Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, who was denied a US visa along with his delegation, barring him from attending in person. However, the Assembly is expected to hold a vote on Friday to authorize Abbas to participate via video link.
From Monday, Saudi Arabia and France will co-chair crucial talks over the long-debated two-state solution, envisioning Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace. These talks are likely to coincide with the formal recognition of a Palestinian state by several nations, including France. This follows last week’s overwhelming UN General Assembly vote in favour of supporting a future Palestinian state, excluding Hamas.
Analysts view this diplomatic support as symbolic but potentially significant. Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group noted that recognition could carry real weight if supporting countries use it to pressure Israel to halt its campaign in Gaza.
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