France’s Call for Peace and Security in the Middle East

Karl-Gustav Kallasmaa

Karl-Gustav Kallasmaa

Opening Speech

Delegation: French Republic
Committee: United Nations General Assembly First Committee
Topic: Middle East, including the Palestine Question
Date: May 15, 2025

Honorable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,

The French Republic rises with a voice shaped by both history and hope—a voice that has long echoed across the Middle East, from Beirut’s shores to Jerusalem’s hills.

Today, we confront a region in turmoil: conflicts rage, millions suffer, and the Palestine question remains the beating heart of unrest. France declares unequivocally: peace is possible. But peace demands courage, justice, and unity.

France has consistently stood firm—hosting peace talks, leading UNIFIL in Lebanon, and championing a two-state solution where Israel thrives in security and Palestine rises in sovereignty. We have seen settlements choke dialogue and extremism fracture hope. Beyond Palestine, Syria bleeds, Yemen starves—yet solutions remain within our grasp.

France calls for:

  • A UN-led conference to revive Israeli-Palestinian negotiations;
  • A Middle East Security Pact to silence arms;
  • A Humanitarian Fund to heal wounds—France pledges €100 million to begin this work.

As a permanent member of the Security Council, France offers its resolve to bridge divides and build consensus.

Esteemed delegates, the Middle East cries for peace—not promises. Let us act—together—to forge a future of dignity and stability.

France stands with you to make it so.

Thank you.