New York: More than 140 world leaders are gathering in New York for the United Nations General Assembly summit, focusing this year on the future of the Palestinians and Gaza. Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian president, will be notably absent as he and his officials were denied visas by Washington.
According to TRTworld.com, the humanitarian crisis in the Palestinian territories will be the primary focus of the summit, marking two years since the onset of what has been termed the Israeli genocide in Gaza on October 7, 2023. The agenda is set against a backdrop of heightened tensions, with Israel considering annexing parts of the occupied West Bank and exploring bilateral measures against nations like France, whose president, Emmanuel Macron, is hosting the event.
The United States has issued warnings of potential repercussions for those opposing Israel, particularly targeting France. The summit coincides with Israel's intensified ground operations in Gaza City, with limited prospects for a ceasefire despite urgent calls for a two-state solution.
The United Nations General Assembly recently endorsed a declaration outlining concrete steps toward a two-state resolution. However, these efforts have faced criticism from Israel and the United States, labeling them as divisive and mere publicity.
Jean-Noel Barrot, France's Foreign Minister, emphasized that the "New York Declaration" is an actionable plan, prioritizing a ceasefire, hostage release, and unhindered humanitarian aid to Gaza. Following these steps, discussions on future plans are slated for Monday's agenda.
On the international stage, Britain, Canada, Australia, and Portugal have recognized Palestine, while France and others are anticipated to follow. Despite co-hosting the summit, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman will not be present in person, opting to address the assembly via video.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin stressed the global call for the realization of a Palestinian state, urging for tangible measures to actualize this vision.