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In a diplomatic move, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will officially recognise the State of Palestine this September during a session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The decision marks a significant shift in France’s Middle East policy and comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.

'Priority To End War In Gaza': Macron

Posting on social media platform X, Macron stated: "Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine. I will make this solemn announcement before the United Nations General Assembly this coming September. The urgent priority today is to end the war in Gaza and to bring relief to the civilian population. Peace is possible." 

Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine.

I will make this solemn announcement before the United Nations General Assembly this coming September.… pic.twitter.com/VTSVGVH41I

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 24, 2025

Calling for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza, Macron emphasised that lasting peace requires a two-state solution. "We need an immediate ceasefire. We must also ensure the demilitarization of Hamas, secure and rebuild Gaza. And finally, we must build the State of Palestine, guarantee its viability, and ensure that by accepting its demilitarization and fully recognizing Israel, it contributes to the security of all in the region. There is no alternative," he said. 

He added that the move reflects the French people’s deep desire for peace in the Middle East. "Trust, clarity, and resolve. We will achieve peace," he said. 

Palestine Welcomes Decision, Israel & US Condemn Move 

The Palestinian Authority welcomed the decision, hailing it as a step toward justice and statehood. In sharp contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a strong rebuke, accusing France of legitimizing terrorism in the aftermath of Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

“We strongly condemn President Macron’s decision,” Netanyahu posted on X. “Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy. A Palestinian state under current conditions would not bring peace — it would threaten Israel’s existence.”

Similarly, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has criticised France's initiative, calling the move a "reckless" step.