President Emmanuel Macron said Israel cannot block global
momentum for Palestinian state recognition through Gaza offensives or annexing
more territory.
Belgium is the most recent Western country to declare it would recognize the state of Palestine, joining France as one of several nations preparing to do so at the next UN General Assembly in New York.
“No offensive, annexation attempt, or forced displacement of populations will derail the momentum we have created with the (Saudi) Crown Prince – momentum that many partners have already joined,”
Macron said on X after speaking with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Prince Mohammed and Macron "will co-chair the Conference on the Two-State Solution in New York on September 22," according to Macron.
“Our objective is clear: to rally the broadest possible international support for the Two-State Solution – the only way to meet the legitimate aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians,”
the French leader said.
“This will require the implementation of a permanent ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the large-scale delivery of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, and the deployment of a stabilization mission in Gaza,”
he added.
“We are also working to ensure that, the day after, Hamas is disarmed and excluded from any governance of Gaza, that the Palestinian Authority is reformed and strengthened, and that the Gaza Strip is fully reconstructed.”
Macron also said that the United States’ decision not to grant visas to Palestinian officials for the upcoming United Nations General Assembly was “unacceptable” and should be reversed.
“We call for this measure to be reversed and for Palestinian representation to be ensured in accordance with the Host Country Agreement,”
Macron said.
“See you in New York on September 22. Together, let us make this Conference on the Two-State Solution a decisive turning point for peace and security for all in the region.”
What legal steps must France take to formalize recognition at the UNGA?
France announces its decision to recognize Palestine as a
state and formally notifies relevant parties, including the Palestinian
Authority and the UN Secretariat.
The formal recognition is typically declared during the General Debate or a dedicated session at the UNGA, where France can submit a statement affirming the recognition. France would establish or upgrade diplomatic relations with Palestine, including exchanging ambassadors or opening representative offices, consistent with recognition.
While Palestine is already a non-member observer state, formal recognition by key countries like France bolsters diplomatic status and political legitimacy within UN forums.