French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the United Nations General Assembly on September 22, 2026, where he advocated for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict. He expressed concern over the situation in Gaza and the West Bank, stating that it is "unacceptable to stand idly by" in the face of such humanitarian crises. Macron emphasized that a two-state solution would guarantee Israel's security and ensure the Palestinian people's right to exist.
Macron's comments come amid escalating violence in the region. He specifically criticized the increasing violence by Israeli settlers in the West Bank, which he believes undermines the Palestinian people's legitimate right to exist. According to Macron, this situation "robs the Palestinian people of their right to exist." The French President's remarks were reported by the French news agency, France-Presse.
The situation in Lebanon and Syria was also addressed by Macron. He stressed the importance of respecting Lebanon's sovereignty and supporting Syria in its efforts to regain full control over its territory. Macron's statements on the Middle East were made in the context of the ongoing conflicts in the region.
Earlier in the day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres delivered his address to the General Assembly. He highlighted the devastating impact of the conflict in Gaza, which began on October 7, resulting in widespread killing and destruction. Guterres noted that Palestinian civilians have been targeted, and human rights have been violated, with hunger being used as a weapon.
Guterres also expressed concern over the expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank, which he believes threatens the two-state solution and sparks fears of ethnic cleansing. The Secretary-General emphasized that the international community cannot allow the two-state solution to disappear.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict remains a pressing issue, with many countries calling for a peaceful resolution. Macron's advocacy for a two-state solution aligns with the stance of many nations, which believe that this approach is essential for achieving lasting peace in the region.
The international community continues to grapple with the complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict. As world leaders, including Macron and Guterres, emphasize the need for a peaceful resolution, the situation on the ground remains dire. The path forward remains uncertain, but many agree that a two-state solution is essential for achieving lasting peace.
Key points
- Macron calls for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
- Guterres expresses concern over Israeli settlement expansion in the West Bank.
- The situation in Gaza and the West Bank remains dire, with ongoing violence and humanitarian crises.