France to Officially Recognize State of Palestine at UN Assembly – Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, marking a major diplomatic shift by one of Europe’s most influential powers.

The move comes amid growing international pressure to end the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza following Israel’s military campaign launched in response to the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023.

According to AFP, at least 142 countries have now recognized or expressed intent to recognize Palestinian statehood. France will join nations like Norway, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and others in formally supporting the recognition of Palestine.

In a statement shared via social media, Macron said, “The urgent priority today is to end the war in Gaza and rescue the civilian population.” He also called for the creation of a Palestinian state under terms that include demilitarization and mutual recognition with Israel to ensure long-term regional stability.

The announcement drew sharp criticism from Israel. Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Levin described the move as a “shameless decision,” claiming it equates to providing “direct aid to terrorism.”

On the other hand, Palestinian Authority official Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed France’s stance, calling it a “commitment to international law” and a vital step toward realizing the Palestinian right to self-determination.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to engage in diplomatic consultations with French and German leaders in a renewed push for a Gaza ceasefire and broader recognition of Palestinian statehood.

The war has already claimed tens of thousands of lives. Gaza’s health ministry reports that over 59,000 Palestinians — mostly civilians — have been killed in the conflict, while the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel left 1,219 people dead, also mostly civilians.