New York: French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday recognised a Palestinian state at a UN summit aimed at galvanising support for a two-state solution to the Mideast conflict a day ahead of the 2025 UN General Assembly in New York. Macron has spearheaded a move that spurred other Western governments to take the landmark step that has infuriated Israel. France on Monday recognised the state of Palestine at a UN summit in New York nearly two years into the war in Gaza, joining Western allies such as Britain and Canada who made the same historic move.
According to France24.com, shortly after the announcement, the Palestinian Authority hailed the recognition as a "historic and courageous decision." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates in Ramallah expressed that France's recognition is consistent with international law and supports ongoing efforts for peace and the implementation of a two-state solution. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres also remarked that statehood for the Palestinians is a right, not a reward.
Despite the symbolic nature of the recognition, it is not expected to deliver immediate change on the ground. The move by France followed similar actions by Australia, Britain, Canada, and Portugal. However, Israel, which has consistently opposed the recognition of a Palestinian state, reiterated its stance with warnings from Israeli officials.
Israel's ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, stated, "We will take action," criticizing the recognition as not promoting peace but rather supporting terrorism. The US, a key ally of Israel, had urged against the recognition plans, with President Donald Trump stating that a Palestinian state should only emerge through negotiations.
Germany, another major player, chose not to follow France's lead. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized that a negotiated two-state solution is the path to peace.
The UN summit, attended by over 140 world leaders, did not include Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in person, as he was denied a US visa and participated virtually. The timing of the summit coincided with the Jewish New Year, prompting Israel to skip an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintained his position against a Palestinian state, with far-right ministers advocating for the annexation of the West Bank. The conflict remains tense, with significant casualties on both sides following the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 and subsequent Israeli military operations.