France's Macron announces support for Palestinian state at UN assembly
France intends to recognize a Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly, President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday. He published a letter sent to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, confirming France's intention to proceed with Palestinian recognition and persuade other partners to do the same.
Mr. Macron stated, "True to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the state of Palestine." He plans to make this announcement at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
France, with Europe's largest Jewish and Muslim communities, will be the first major Western country to recognize a Palestinian state. This move may provide momentum to a movement mostly led by smaller nations critical of Israel, sparking criticism from Israel and likely a tough response from Washington.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Macron's decision, stating that it "rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy." He emphasized that Palestinians seek a state instead of living in peace alongside Israel.
The United States opposed any unilateral steps to recognize a Palestinian state, citing potential conflicts with US foreign policy interests. The White House did not immediately comment on the matter.
Macron's decision to recognize a Palestinian state has been in the works for months, aiming to uphold the idea of a two-state solution. French officials had considered this move before a United Nations conference in June, which was postponed due to US pressure and regional conflicts.
The announcement ahead of the upcoming conference is intended to provide a framework for French diplomats at the United Nations to engage with other countries considering recognizing a Palestinian state. Macron has faced resistance from allies like Britain and Canada on this issue.
Israel has lobbied against the recognition, warning of potential consequences for bilateral relations. Palestinian Authority's vice-president Hussein Al Sheikh appreciated France's decision, stating that it reflects France's commitment to international law and support for Palestinian rights to self-determination and statehood.