France plans to officially recognize a Palestinian state during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, as confirmed by President Emmanuel Macron. This initiative aims to foster peace in the region, but has stirred significant backlash from both Israel and the United States.
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President Macron shared this decision via social media, along with a letter addressed to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas. He emphasized France’s commitment to advancing Palestinian recognition and influencing other nations to do the same. In his words, “True to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the state of Palestine.”
He further stated, “I will make this solemn announcement at the United Nations General Assembly next September.”
Fidèle à son engagement historique pour une paix juste et durable au Proche-Orient, j’ai décidé que la France reconnaîtra l’État de Palestine.
J’en ferai l’annonce solennelle à l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies, au mois de septembre prochain.… pic.twitter.com/7yQLkqoFWC
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 24, 2025
This proclamation has elicited strong reactions from both Israel and Washington. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned Macron’s decision, calling it a betrayal by a close ally and a G7 member. He stated, “Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy,” and went on to express concern that recognizing a Palestinian state would only serve as a launching pad for hostility towards Israel.
In a similar vein, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz labeled the initiative “a disgrace and a surrender to terrorism,” asserting that Israel would not permit the establishment of a Palestinian entity that jeopardizes its security.
Responding on behalf of the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked, “We strongly reject President Macron’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly.” He characterized the decision as reckless and detrimental to the peace process, especially in light of the events following the October 7 attack.
France, however, has articulated that its intention to formally recognize a Palestinian state stands in opposition to Hamas’s rejection of a two-state solution. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot underscored this sentiment, stating, “Hamas has always ruled out a two-state solution. By recognizing Palestine, France goes against that terrorist organization.”
Meanwhile, British officials expressed a measured stance, supporting the eventual recognition of a Palestinian state. British Science and Technology Minister Peter Kyle noted, “We desire Palestinian statehood and want to ensure that the circumstances can exist for that kind of long-term political solution.” However, he emphasized that alleviating the immediate suffering in Gaza and securing a ceasefire must take precedence.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed similar sentiments, criticizing Israel’s handling of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reiterating support for a two-state solution. He called for an immediate ceasefire and respect for the territorial integrity of both the West Bank and Gaza.
Despite international pressure, Macron has been leaning toward this decision for months. Following postponed discussions at a planned United Nations conference, which aimed to outline frameworks for a Palestinian state while ensuring Israel’s security, Macron’s announcement serves as a critical step in revitalizing the dialogue around the two-state solution.
It is important to note that Macron’s push for recognition of a Palestinian state has encountered resistance not only from Israel but also from allies like Britain and Canada. Some Israeli officials have been active in lobbying against this recognition, labeling it a “nuclear bomb” for bilateral relations.
As this situation develops, Palestinian Authority Vice President Hussein Al Sheikh expressed gratitude, stating that Macron’s decision reflects France’s commitment to international law and the Palestinian people’s rights. “It underscores our right to self-determination and the establishment of our independent state,” he remarked.
In the words of Albert Einstein, “Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” This fundamental truth underscores the importance of dialogue, empathy, and concerted effort in the pursuit of lasting peace in the region.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
