French President Macron Announces France’s Intent to Officially Recognize Palestine as a State
PARIS — French President Emmanuel Macron declared on Thursday that France will officially recognize Palestine as a state, a decision made against the backdrop of escalating global concern for those suffering in Gaza. The announcement quickly drew opposition from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that the United States “strongly rejects” this action, claiming it aids Hamas propaganda and undermines peace efforts. Macron plans to formalize this recognition at the United Nations General Assembly in September, emphasizing the immediate need to halt the conflict in Gaza and protect civilians. While he has expressed solidarity with Israel following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, Macron has increasingly voiced frustration over Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
He articulated his commitment to a just peace in the Middle East, asserting that “peace is possible.” This recognition positions France as the most significant European nation to acknowledge Palestinian statehood. More than 140 countries currently recognize Palestine, including several others in Europe. France is home to the largest Jewish and Muslim populations in Western Europe, making the issue particularly resonant within the country, where tensions often spill over into public discourse and protest.
In conjunction with this announcement, France’s foreign minister is set to co-host a UN conference next week focused on a two-state solution. Macron has reiterated his determination for such a resolution, supporting Israel’s right to self-defense while advocating for Palestinian rights. This decision comes amid mounting international criticism against Israel, including recent condemnation from France and various European nations regarding restrictions on aid and civilian casualties in Gaza. Palestinians aspire for an independent state encompassing the occupied West Bank, annexed East Jerusalem, and Gaza, territories controlled by Israel since the 1967 Middle East war.
However, the Israeli government continues to oppose Palestinian statehood, viewing it as a concession to militants following the recent attacks.