Summary
French President Emmanuel Macron announced France will recognize Palestine as a state.
The move responds to growing global outrage over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Macron emphasized the need to address starvation and suffering in Gaza.
The decision adds pressure for other countries to consider recognizing Palestine.
Recognition aims to support a two-state solution amid ongoing Middle East tensions.
In a post on X, Macron stated that he would formally announce the decision at the September UN General Assembly. "It is imperative that the war in Gaza end and that the civilian population be spared today."
The French president, who regularly condemns antisemitism and expressed sympathy for Israel following the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas assault, has been more and more irate with Israel's conflict in Gaza, particularly in recent months.
"Given its historic commitment to a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the state of Palestine,''
Macron posted.
″Peace is possible.''
Additionally, he shared a letter he wrote to Mahmoud Abbas, the president of Palestine, regarding the decision.
The largest and most influential European nation to recognize Palestine is France. A Palestinian state is recognized by more than 140 nations, including more than a dozen in Europe.
Fighting in the Middle East frequently spills over into rallies or other problems in France, which has the largest Muslim and Jewish populations in western Europe.
There was no immediate response from the Israeli Foreign Ministry.
Next week, France's foreign minister will co-host a two-state solution summit at the United Nations. In addition to expressing his "determination to recognize the state of Palestine," Macron has advocated for a two-state solution in tandem with acknowledging Israel's right to self-defense. He made this declaration last month.
Soon after the 1967 war, Israel annexed east Jerusalem, which it now regards to be part of its capital. There are now more than 500,000 Jewish settlers with Israeli citizenship living in the West Bank's several settlements, some of which resemble expansive suburbs. The Palestinian Authority has limited autonomy in the population centers, while Israel maintains military control over the 3 million Palestinians living in the territory.
What is the context and implications based on prior positions and the broader situation?
Historically, France has supported a two-state solution achieved through negotiated peace talks, balancing its alliances in the Middle East and its commitments within the international community.
Macron’s announcement indicates a strong response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and increasing international pressure for more decisive action to support Palestinian self-determination.
Recognition of Palestine as a state by France would increase momentum for other European countries to consider similar steps. It could also send a strong message to Israel and the broader international community about the urgency of ending the blockade and violence in Gaza, emphasizing the need for political recognition alongside humanitarian aid.