The number of countries recognising the State of Palestine has surged to 160, following a series of declarations at a high-level United Nations conference on the two-state solution in New York. The meeting, co-hosted by Saudi Arabia and France, gathered leaders from around the world, with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressing participants via video link. The conference highlighted a growing international consensus demanding an immediate halt to the ongoing war in Gaza and the alleviation of its humanitarian catastrophe.

Several European nations formally recognised Palestine during the event. France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Portugal, Monaco, and Andorra joined the expanding list, citing ongoing genocide, settlement expansion, and the dire situation in Gaza as decisive reasons. Leaders stressed that recognition is not symbolic but an affirmation of the Palestinian people’s legitimate rights, and that peace can only be achieved through a viable two-state solution. Saudi and UN officials reiterated the urgency of ending occupation and restoring stability in the region.

The conference also saw strong calls for a ceasefire and unrestricted humanitarian aid. Leaders from Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, Brazil, and other nations condemned the attacks on Gaza, describing them as violations of international law and, in some cases, as acts of genocide or ethnic cleansing. With 160 states now recognising Palestine, international pressure is mounting on Israel to cease military operations, allow aid to reach civilians, and engage in renewed peace negotiations. The momentum reflects a critical shift in global attitudes toward Palestinian sovereignty and the urgency of resolving the ongoing genocidal war.