France to Recognise Palestinian State at UN in September, Macron Announces

France to Recognise Palestinian State at UN in September, Macron Announces
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French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will formally recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September. In a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron confirmed the decision, framing it as part of France’s longstanding support for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East.

Macron emphasized the urgent need to end the war in Gaza and highlighted the importance of building a viable Palestinian state that accepts demilitarisation and recognises Israel. He said the move aims to revive hopes for a two-state solution.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who claimed it “rewards terror” and risks creating another Iranian-backed entity. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also condemned the move, calling it a “reckless decision.”

France’s recognition follows similar steps by Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and Norway earlier this year. The Palestinian Authority welcomed Macron’s announcement, calling it a commitment to international law and Palestinian self-determination. Hamas also praised the decision.

The announcement comes ahead of a UN ministerial conference in July and a broader summit in September, where France hopes to build momentum with other nations considering similar recognition amid escalating humanitarian concerns in Gaza.