France will formally recognise a Palestinian state during the United Nations General Assembly in September. The France Palestinian state recognition plan aims to revive peace efforts. It has triggered strong reactions from both Israel and the United States.
France’s Recognition Plan
President Emmanuel Macron confirmed in a letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas that France will recognise a Palestinian state in September at the UN. France hopes its Palestine recognition will encourage other nations to follow suit and support a two-state solution.
Israel’s Strong Criticism
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the France Palestinian state recognition a “reward for terror” and warned it could endanger Israel’s security. He insisted a Palestinian state established under current conditions would serve as a “launch pad to annihilate Israel.”
Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar and Justice Minister Yariv Levin accused France’s move of boosting Hamas and undermining regional stability. Levin labeled the decision a “disgrace” and hinted at potential annexation of West Bank areas as retaliation.
U.S. Rejection
The U.S. officially rejected the France Palestine recognition plan. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called it “reckless” and said it “only serves Hamas propaganda.” He described it as an insult to the victims of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack.
A June U.S. diplomatic cable also cautioned that unilateral recognition could conflict with U.S. foreign policy and carry consequences.
Palestinian and Global Responses
Palestinian leaders and Hamas welcomed France’s decision. Deputy President Hussein al‑Sheikh praised it as alignment with international law and support for Palestinian self‑determination. Hamas called the move a meaningful step toward justice.
Supporters include Spain, Ireland and Saudi Arabia. Spain’s prime minister affirmed the move supports the two‑state solution. Ireland’s foreign minister echoed that recognition remains essential for lasting peace.
Diplomatic Timing
Initially slated for June, a UN‑sponsored peace conference co‑hosted by France and Saudi Arabia was delayed due to regional tensions. That conference will now take place July 28–29, ahead of the UN General Assembly session in September. France hopes its France Palestinian state recognition provides moral and diplomatic momentum.
France would become the first major Western G7 nation to formally recognise a Palestinian state, joining over 140 countries that already have or intend to offer recognition.
