Boris Johnson at WGS: Palestinians Deserve a State, Gaza Crisis a ‘Failure of Governance’
Dubai, February 12, 2025 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has called for the establishment of a Palestinian state, stating that the people of Gaza “deserve to have the state they’ve been promised for decades.” His remarks came during a keynote session at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025, where he discussed key geopolitical challenges, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, US foreign policy, and economic governance.
Gaza Conflict and Calls for Palestinian Statehood
Addressing the ongoing crisis in Gaza, Johnson described the situation as “an absolute tragedy” and criticized governance in the enclave.
"You cannot go on with a situation in which you have Gaza ruled by a government that wants to exterminate Israel," he said, while emphasizing that Palestinians deserve their own state and an end to their suffering.
When asked about former US President Donald Trump’s controversial suggestion to resettle Palestinians in Jordan and Egypt, Johnson avoided direct criticism, stating that there is "no easy solution” to the conflict.
US Foreign Policy and Ukraine War
On US foreign policy, Johnson expressed optimism about the new US administration’s stance on Ukraine, stating that it has prevented a potential capitulation to Russia. He highlighted the importance of continued Western support for Ukraine, arguing that the war is about “identity and destiny,” not just territory.
Regarding the 2024 US elections, Johnson reaffirmed his belief in strong American leadership, saying:"The world is on the whole better when America is strong, and provides strong leadership, and I think that’s what Donald Trump is capable of providing."
Economic and Political Governance
Reflecting on economic governance, Johnson urged governments to curb excessive spending, warning against wasteful use of taxpayers’ money.
"We are spending far too much of taxpayers’ money without achieving the objectives that we promise," he said, emphasizing the need for fiscal discipline in the UK and across Europe.
When discussing his legacy as UK Prime Minister, Johnson highlighted his role in Brexit, COVID-19 vaccine rollout, and economic independence. He argued that governments must now transition away from pandemic-era state spending and regulation.
On his political future, Johnson dismissed any immediate plans to return to office, stating:"I would only do something if I thought I could do something useful. For the moment, there is nothing I could usefully do."
World Governments Summit 2025
Held under the theme ‘Shaping Future Governments,’ the World Governments Summit 2025 has convened over 30 heads of state and government, 80 international organizations, and 140 government delegations. The agenda includes 21 global forums, 200 interactive sessions, and over 30 ministerial meetings.
The event, which runs until February 13, will also feature the release of 30 strategic reports in collaboration with leading international institutions.