In September, France officially recognized the Palestinian state, with President Emmanuel Macron announcing the decision during the UN General Assembly. Macron emphasized the urgent need to end the war in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and humanitarian aid. He affirmed France’s commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East while insisting on Hamas’s demilitarization and the rebuilding of Gaza.
Palestinian officials praised the recognition as a step toward self-determination. In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the idea, claiming that a Palestinian state would threaten Israel’s existence. Macron’s letter to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas reiterated France’s support for international law and the Palestinian right to independence.
Currently, over 140 UN member states recognize Palestine, but key allies like the US and UK do not. The situation in Gaza has worsened, with Israeli military actions following Hamas’s October 7 attack, resulting in significant casualties. The UN reports escalating humanitarian crises, with widespread malnutrition among children and warnings of severe hunger. British Prime Minister Kiel described the conditions as a humanitarian catastrophe.
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