France will recognize a Palestinian state in the UN General Assembly in September, President Emmanuel Macron said on Thursday.
"True to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognise the State of Palestine. I will make a formal announcement at the United Nations General Assembly in September," the French head of state wrote on X and Instagram.
With France on board, Palestinian statehood is today recognized by 142 states, according to an AFP count, although Israel and the United States are strongly against it.
France would be the most important European power to do so.
"The urgent priority today is to end the war in Gaza and rescue the civilian population," Macron wrote.
“We must finally build the State of Palestine, ensure its viability and enable it, by accepting its demilitarisation and fully recognising Israel, to contribute to the security of all in the Middle East.”
France's move carries considerable heft on the world stage, especially as it is the most high-profile European country to do so. While several EU nations have publicly endorsed a two-state solution, France's official recognition can create momentum within the diplomatic community and could potentially have implications for European policy agendas in future talks.
Macron's focus on both Palestinian statehood and Israel's security emphasizes a two-pronged strategy that will promote stability. By pushing for a demilitarized Palestinian state that at the same time recognizes Israel, France is situating itself as a mediator that endorses coexistence by way of international agreement.
The action by France follows increasing international concern over the prolonged violence and humanitarian emergencies in the Middle East. Macron's anticipated announcement at the UNGA can be made a breakthrough moment in world diplomacy, marking a change of approach by major powers towards the Israel-Palestine conflict.
