Forceful Pleas at UN for Two-State Solution for Israelis and Palestinians

There is no alternative to a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians, France told a UN conference co-chaired with Saudi Arabia on July 28 that was boycotted by Israel and branded a stunt by Washington.

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NEW YORK -

"Only a political, two-state solution will help respond to the legitimate aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace and security. There is no alternative," French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said at the start of the three-day meeting.

Days before the conference, French President Emmanuel Macron announced he would formally recognise Palestinian statehood in September, provoking strong opposition from Israel and the US.

Luxembourg hinted on July 28 that it could follow France and recognise a Palestinian state in September, with the possibility that other countries could announce similar plans when the conference resumed on July 29.

"All states have a responsibility to act now," said Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa at the start of the conference.

Mr Mustafa called for an international force to help underwrite Palestinian statehood.

He called for the world to recognise Palestinian statehood, while later demanding that Hamas surrender control of the Gaza Strip and its arms as part of a deal to end fighting in the territory.