France will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in New York this September, President Emmanuel Macron announced Thursday. In a letter to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron expressed his hope that the recognition would bring lasting peace to the Middle East.
*A Historic Commitment*
Macron emphasized France’s historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the region, stating, “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.” This move would make France the first major Western power to extend full diplomatic recognition to Palestine, joining around 142 countries that already do so.¹
*Reaction from Israel and the US*
However, not everyone is pleased with Macron’s decision. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move, saying it “rewards terror” and risks creating another Iranian proxy. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also responded angrily, calling it a “reckless decision” that was a “slap in the face” to victims of the Hamas attack.
*Global Response*
Despite the criticism, many countries have welcomed Macron’s announcement. The Palestinian Authority’s vice-president, Hussein al-Sheikh, thanked France for its commitment to international law and support for the Palestinian people’s rights to self-determination. Saudi Arabia hailed the announcement as “historic,” praising France’s decision as a reaffirmation of the international community’s consensus on the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
*Implications and Next Steps*
Macron’s decision is seen as an attempt to revive the two-state solution, with France pushing for a viable, demilitarized Palestinian state that fully recognizes Israel. The recognition is expected to have significant implications for the Middle East peace process. About 40 foreign ministers will gather in New York next week, where France will likely use this momentum to work with other countries considering recognizing a Palestinian state.
*International Support*
Other European countries, such as Norway, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, have also recognized Palestinian statehood in recent months. Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hinted at the possibility of recognition, stating that a ceasefire would put them on a path to recognizing a Palestinian state. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, Macron’s decision has sparked a mix of reactions, with many hoping it will contribute to a lasting peace in the region.
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