In a historic move, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that France will officially recognise the State of Palestine during the upcoming United Nations meeting in September.
With this declaration, France becomes the most powerful European nation to back Palestinian statehood, significantly strengthening global momentum for the cause.
Currently, 142 countries recognise Palestine, with several nations joining the list in response to Israel’s prolonged offensive in Gaza following Hamas attacks nearly two years ago.
Palestinian Authority official Hussein al-Sheikh praised Macron’s decision, calling it “a reflection of France’s commitment to international law and the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.” Hamas also hailed it as a “positive step” toward justice for Palestinians.
However, the announcement sparked fierce criticism from Israel and the United States.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio blasted the move as “reckless,” claiming it “serves Hamas propaganda and undermines peace efforts.”
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu warned it “rewards terror” and risks creating “another Iranian proxy like Gaza.”
On the other hand, the move was welcomed by several nations, including:
Spain, whose Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said, “The two-state solution is the only solution.”
Saudi Arabia, which urged more countries to follow France’s lead.
Jordan, which called it a step toward “ending the occupation.”
The Saudi Foreign Ministry termed it a “historic decision,” while Jordan’s Foreign Ministry described it as a move that revives hopes for the two-state solution.
The recognition marks a major diplomatic shift in Europe, raising questions about how it will impact ongoing Middle East peace efforts and the already tense Israel-Europe relations.
