Delegation: French Republic
Committee: United Nations General Assembly First Committee (Disarmament and International Security)
Topic: Middle East, including the Palestine Question
Date: March 10, 2025
I. Introduction
The French Republic reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fostering peace, security, and prosperity in the Middle East—a region of profound historical and strategic significance to France and the broader international community. The unresolved Palestine question remains a central obstacle to regional stability, exacerbated by ongoing armed conflicts, terrorism, and humanitarian crises.
France maintains that sustainable peace in the Middle East requires a just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, grounded in international law, dialogue, and the protection of human rights. Guided by the United Nations Charter and relevant Security Council resolutions (including 242, 338, and 2334), France advocates for a multilateral approach that upholds sovereignty, security, and dignity for all. Our delegation remains a steadfast proponent of a two-state solution.
II. National Background and Position
France’s deep historical ties to the Middle East—from its former mandates in Lebanon and Syria to its active diplomatic and humanitarian roles today—underscore its long-standing engagement in the region. On the Palestine question, France has consistently supported a negotiated two-state solution, affirming both Israel’s right to security and Palestine’s right to statehood, with borders based on the 1967 lines and mutually agreed land swaps.
We hosted the 2017 Paris Peace Conference to revitalize negotiations and have denounced unilateral actions such as settlement expansion, which undermine peace efforts. Simultaneously, France maintains strong bilateral relations with Israel and other regional stakeholders, reflecting our balanced and principled diplomacy.
Beyond the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, France remains a key regional actor. Through Operation Chammal, we lead counterterrorism efforts against ISIS. In Lebanon, over 700 French troops support UN peacekeeping under UNIFIL. France also contributes €400 million annually in humanitarian aid across Syria, Yemen, and other crisis zones, reaffirming our commitment to civilian protection.
France believes that the Middle East’s complex web of conflicts—aggravated by sectarian tensions and foreign interference—requires a comprehensive, coordinated strategy. We oppose unilateral escalatory measures, including unrecognized annexations and arms proliferation, and advocate for inclusive diplomacy under the auspices of the United Nations.
III. Proposed Solutions
1. Revival of the Middle East Peace Process
France calls for a UN-led international conference to relaunch Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, modeled on the Paris Peace Conference. This forum should involve major stakeholders, including the Quartet, Arab League, and regional powers, to reaffirm commitments toward a two-state solution. France is ready to host and mediate such an initiative.
2. Regional Security and Disarmament Framework
France proposes the creation of a UN-backed Middle East Security Pact to mitigate arms races and sectarian conflict. This framework would promote confidence-building measures, mutual non-aggression pledges, and a phased disarmament plan for non-state actors, all monitored by an expanded UN mission.
3. Humanitarian Stabilization Fund
To address protracted humanitarian emergencies, France supports establishing a UN-administered fund focused on reconstruction and refugee repatriation in Syria, Yemen, and Palestine. France pledges €100 million in seed funding and urges G20 nations to contribute toward infrastructure rebuilding and economic recovery.
4. Strengthening UNIFIL and Regional Peacekeeping
France recommends enhancing UNIFIL’s mandate to prevent cross-border escalations in Lebanon and proposes a new UN mission in Gaza to monitor ceasefires and ensure humanitarian access. These efforts would reaffirm France’s leadership in peacekeeping while prioritizing civilian protection.
5. Counterterrorism and Governance Support
France urges the establishment of a UN-AU-Arab League partnership to combat extremism, offering training for local security forces and governance support. This initiative targets root causes such as poverty and exclusion, while respecting national sovereignty, starting with a pilot program in Iraq and Jordan.
IV. Conclusion
The French Republic remains resolute in its pursuit of a stable, secure, and peaceful Middle East. A just resolution of the Palestine question and the implementation of broader regional solutions are essential. With a principled foreign policy, robust peacekeeping presence, and diplomatic leadership, France stands ready to collaborate with all delegations to realize a vision of shared prosperity and enduring peace.
Signed,
Delegate of the French Republic
United Nations General Assembly First Committee