French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognise the State of Palestine in September, becoming the first G7 nation to take this step. The official declaration will be made during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York.
In a statement on X, Macron said, “The urgent need today is for the war in Gaza to end and for the civilian population to be rescued. Peace is possible. We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and massive humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.”
Macron stressed that the recognition is part of France’s long-standing commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. He emphasised the need to demilitarise Hamas, rebuild Gaza, and work toward a viable Palestinian state that fully recognises Israel and contributes to regional security.
Palestinian leaders welcomed the announcement. Senior official Hussein al-Sheikh described it as a reflection of France’s support for international law and Palestinian self-determination. A letter confirming the decision was sent to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.
However, the move drew sharp criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called it a “reward for terror” following Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023. Netanyahu warned that a Palestinian state under current conditions could threaten Israel’s security.
The U.S. also opposed the decision, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling it “reckless.” The UK, another close ally of Israel, has not formally recognised a Palestinian state but Prime Minister Keir Starmer said a ceasefire could pave the way for such recognition and a two-state solution.
Hamas, meanwhile, welcomed the move, calling it a “positive step” and urging other countries to follow suit.
Currently, more than 140 UN member states recognise Palestine. Several European countries, including Spain and Ireland, are among them.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has led to a humanitarian crisis. According to Gaza’s health ministry, over 59,000 people have been killed since the conflict escalated last October. Aid agencies have warned of worsening malnutrition, especially among children, as supplies remain limited.
