Another diplomatic misstep? Low expectations for Macron's conference

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Tuesday a joint initiative with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to co-chair a major conference aimed at advancing the establishment of a Palestinian state. Scheduled for June next year, the conference seeks to revitalize the stalled two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Speaking from Paris, Macron emphasized the importance of renewed diplomatic efforts to secure peace in the region. 

"We have decided to co-chair a conference focused on the two-state solution," Macron said, referring to the coexistence of Israel and a future Palestinian state. He underscored the need to combine diplomatic initiatives in the coming months to ensure broad support for the initiative.

President Macron affirmed his commitment to recognizing a Palestinian state but stressed the importance of timing. "Recognition will come at the right moment," he said, noting that it should be part of a broader reciprocal process that includes acknowledgment and assurances for Israel's security.

Simultaneously, Macron highlighted the importance of encouraging a movement of recognition towards Israel, describing this as essential for fostering regional security and trust. "This could convince stakeholders that the two-state solution is not just viable but also beneficial for Israel," he added.

The French president also revealed plans to involve a wide range of international partners, both European and non-European, in the initiative. "We aim to mobilize global support, leveraging France's diplomatic leadership to bring together allies ready to commit to this path," Macron stated.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a key regional player, has signaled his full support for the initiative. His involvement highlights Saudi Arabia's growing role in Middle Eastern diplomacy and its efforts to balance regional alliances while pursuing normalization agreements with Israel.

French President Emmanuel Macron's foreign policy is unclear and inconsistent. France has lost its influence in the Middle East.

This initiative is highly likely to fail, much like those undertaken since October 7, 2023.

In Israel, leaders do not place much trust in Emmanuel Macron.