France Plans to Recognize Palestinian State Amid European Divisions

Wed Oct 22 2025 04:46:53 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

President Emmanuel Macron announces France's intention to recognize a Palestinian state, signaling a shift in European diplomatic approaches, although Germany and Italy hold back.

In a significant diplomatic move, French President Emmanuel Macron has declared that France will formally recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly, asserting it as a necessary step towards a stable peace process. This decision, however, has not been embraced by fellow European nations like Germany and Italy, which oppose immediate recognition, citing concerns about the destabilizing effects it could have. The move has elicited varying responses across Europe, showcasing a fragmentation of opinion on the issue of Palestinian statehood.

In a significant diplomatic move, President Emmanuel Macron will formally recognize a Palestinian state during the upcoming UN General Assembly, supported by several European nations. This decision is framed as a 'necessity' for peace and stability in the region. Macron emphasized that this recognition would mark the 'beginning of a political process' aimed at establishing security for all involved.

Following suit to the recent acknowledgments from the UK, Canada, and Australia, France is taking a bold step as a prominent voice within the G7 and the UN Security Council. Despite this, key European allies such as Germany and Italy have refrained from joining France, with commentary suggesting a more cautious approach to statehood recognition.

Israeli officials have sharply criticized France's move, framing it as a concession to Hamas, while French officials insist it represents a commitment to a two-state solution, rejecting Hamas's influence.

Alongside the official acknowledgment, symbolic displays in France included flying Palestinian flags in various town halls and projecting Palestinian and Israeli flags on the Eiffel Tower in a call for peace.

Despite the assertions of diplomatic solidarity, Germany's government maintains that recognition of Palestinian statehood is premature, advocating for further steps before such actions can be taken. Merkel's coalition has faced increasing criticism over Israel's military operations in the region, reflecting a growing sentiment in European politics regarding the situation.

Protests advocating for Palestine have erupted throughout Italy, even as the government expresses skepticism about recognizing a state that has not yet achieved full autonomy. The dynamics within Europe surrounding recognition are becoming increasingly complex as Macron's announcement approaches.