Ministers from around the world are gathering at the United Nations for a long-awaited conference focused on advancing a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians. The event, hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, was postponed earlier this year after heightened tensions in the region. The conference aims to outline a roadmap for establishing a Palestinian state while addressing Israel's security concerns.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has stated that France will use the conference to encourage more countries to recognize a Palestinian state, with a formal recognition planned for September. However, both the United States and Israel are boycotting the conference, citing concerns that it does not adequately address issues such as condemning Hamas and securing the release of hostages. The absence of these key players highlights ongoing divisions over the path to peace in the region.