France Officially Recognizes Palestinian State Amidst Calls for Peace

Thu Oct 23 2025 03:32:22 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant move, France has officially recognized the state of Palestine, with President Macron asserting a need for peace and a two-state solution amidst growing international concern over the crisis in Gaza.

France's recognition of a Palestinian state, announced by President Macron at the UN, marks a pivotal moment in international relations. The call for a peaceful resolution comes amidst escalating conflicts, with support for a two-state solution gaining traction among several nations as humanitarian concerns persist over the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

France has formally recognized a Palestinian state, becoming the latest country to take this significant step in international politics. Speaking at the United Nations in New York, President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that 'the time for peace has come' and stated, 'nothing justifies the ongoing war in Gaza'.

As part of this push, France and Saudi Arabia are co-hosting a summit focused on advancing plans for a two-state solution, despite non-participation from key G7 states such as Germany, Italy, and the USA.

President Macron also announced that Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino plan to recognize Palestine, adding to the growing list of nations, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, which have made similar declarations.

Amidst rising international pressure regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and ongoing settlement activities in the West Bank, Macron's call for recognition has drawn sharp responses. Israel's ambassador to the UN condemned the recognition, suggesting it rewards violent actions by Hamas and claiming that the two-state solution is no longer viable post the October attacks.

Macron reiterated the need to halt hostilities and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas, reinforcing that 'right must always prevail over might'. He stressed that the international community must exert every effort to preserve the possibility of a peaceful co-existence between Israel and Palestine.

Furthermore, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister reaffirmed support for a two-state solution as the sole pathway to sustainable peace. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the situation in Gaza 'morally, legally, and politically intolerable' and urged for a credible peace process.

In response to the escalating violence, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas addressed the UN via videolink, advocating for permanent ceasefire initiatives and condemning Hamas's violent actions, calling for a unified governance of Gaza under the Palestinian Authority.

As support for Palestinian statehood increases, protests in favor of Palestinian rights are noted across various European cities, reflecting a shifting sentiment among the public and local governments, even amid political resistance from certain leaderships.

In conclusion, Macron articulated France's readiness to assist in a future stabilization mission in Gaza, with the caveat that collaboration hinges on the resolution of the hostage situation and concomitant ceasefire agreements.