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French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday that France intends to officially recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly, making it the leading European nation to do so. Currently, at least 142 countries have either recognized or are planning to recognize Palestinian statehood, though both Israel and the United States strongly oppose this move.
Since Israel intensified its military campaign against Gaza nearly two years ago in response to Hamas attacks, several countries have expressed their intention to recognize Palestinian independence. Hussein al-Sheikh, a senior official of the Palestinian Authority, welcomed Macron’s announcement, stating it demonstrates France’s dedication to international law and support for Palestinians’ right to self-determination and an independent state. Hamas also praised Macron’s pledge, calling it a positive step toward justice for Palestinians and affirming their right to self-determination.
Reactions from various nations include:
United States:
Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized Macron’s decision, calling it reckless. He stated, “This reckless move only propagates Hamas’ narrative and hampers peace efforts. It is a direct insult to the victims of October 7th.”
Israel:
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu argued that recognizing Palestine under current conditions would enable terror activities and could produce yet another Iranian proxy, similar to Gaza. He warned that such a state could serve as a stepping stone to destroy Israel rather than coexist peacefully.
Spain:
Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, whose country already recognizes Palestine, welcomed Macron’s stance. He emphasized that the two-state solution remains the only viable path toward lasting peace and called on the international community to protect what Netanyahu seeks to undermine.
Saudi Arabia:
The Saudi Foreign Ministry described Macron’s move as historic, urging other countries that have not yet recognized Palestine to follow suit and foster peace based on the legitimate rights of Palestinians.
Jordan:
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for Macron’s decision, describing it as a positive step toward realizing a two-state solution and ending occupation.
Palestinian Authority:
Senior official Hussein al-Sheikh reaffirmed that recognizing Palestine symbolizes France’s commitment to international norms and supports their quest for self-determination and independence.
Hamas:
The group hailed Macron’s pledge as an encouraging development and called on other European nations and countries still hesitant to recognize Palestine to follow France’s lead, emphasizing their support for Palestinian self-determination and justice.
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