Amid a French and Saudi initiative to convene a United Nations summit in New York next month focused on a two-state solution, U.S. President Donald Trump has warned France and the UK not to recognize a Palestinian state unilaterally, according to a report published Tuesday by Middle East Eye.
According to the report, France is considering recognizing a Palestinian state during the summit and has applied similar pressure on the UK. In response, the U.S. administration cautioned both countries that such recognition could destabilize the region.
Applying Sovereignty in the West Bank
Sources emphasized that Arab states are also pressuring France and the UK to move forward with the initiative, viewing it as a prerequisite for the summit’s success. Minister Ron Dermer stated last week that if France and the UK recognize Palestine, Israel may respond with unilateral measures — including the application of sovereignty to parts of the West Bank.
“Unilateral Steps Will Be Met With Unilateral Steps”
Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel echoed the message in a briefing to foreign journalists earlier today, stating, “Unilateral steps will be met with unilateral steps.”
While pressure is mounting within Europe to formally recognize a Palestinian state, both Jerusalem and Washington have made it clear: unilateral recognition will not advance a resolution — it will only push one further away.
