A U.N. conference on a two-state solution for Israel and the Palestinians, originally scheduled for June 17-20, 2025, has been postponed due to rising tensions in the Middle East, as announced by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Macron cited logistical and security concerns, along with the absence of some Palestinian representatives, as key reasons for the postponement.

The conference was intended to be co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, aiming to revive the stalled peace process between Israel and the Palestinians.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benyamin Netanyahu has consistently opposed the establishment of a Palestinian state and Israel declined to participate in the conference, despite international support for Palestinian recognition.

The conference sought to boost the number of countries recognizing Palestinian statehood, with over 145 of the 193 U.N. member nations already recognizing Palestine as a state.

Macron emphasized the goal of establishing a demilitarized Palestinian state that acknowledges Israel's security, explicitly stating that Hamas leaders would be excluded from this state.

He reiterated his commitment to recognizing the state of Palestine in the future, emphasizing the need for a dual recognition of both Palestine and Israel's right to exist.

Macron described the interconnected issues of the Israel-Iran conflict, the Gaza war, and the Palestinian situation, stressing the need for collective action.

In light of escalating tensions following Israeli military actions against Iran, Macron indicated France's readiness to protect regional partners without engaging in attacks on Iran.

Forum leaders have emphasized the urgent need for action due to extreme violence, terrorism, and injustice in the Middle East, which threaten the viability of the two-state solution.

Macron assured that the conference would occur 'as soon as possible' and mentioned ongoing discussions with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a new date.

Additionally, the Forum for Peace in Paris, scheduled for today, will highlight the voices of Israeli and Palestinian civil societies amid ongoing political stalemates.