UN Summit: Six Nations to Recognize Palestinian State; Israel, US Announce Boycott
New York – World leaders are gathering today at the **United Nations headquarters** for a high-level summit hosted by **France and Saudi Arabia**, where six countries are set to officially recognize the **State of Palestine**.
According to international media reports, **France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, San Marino, and Andorra** will formally declare their recognition of Palestine as part of efforts to rally global support for a **two-state solution**.
The move follows earlier recognition announcements by the **UK, Canada, Portugal, and Australia**.
In protest, **Israel and the United States** have announced a boycott of the summit. Palestinian Authority President **Mahmoud Abbas** has also been barred from attending in person after the US denied him a visa, but he will address the gathering via video link. Saudi Crown Prince **Mohammed bin Salman** is also expected to participate virtually.
Israel’s UN Ambassador **Danny Danon** dismissed the conference as a “circus,” calling it a reward for terrorism. Meanwhile, the **US State Department** labeled Western recognition of Palestine as “symbolic gestures,” insisting that Washington’s priority remains **Israel’s security, the release of hostages, and sustainable regional peace**.
European states backing recognition argued that urgent action is needed, warning that without it, the **two-state solution** risks being buried permanently.
