Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
Marco Rubio describes the French decision as “a slap in the face of the victims of October 7th”.
Marco Rubio describes the French decision as “a slap in the face of the victims of October 7th”.
What is happening?
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognise a Palestinian state during the United Nations General Assembly in September.
he move, aimed at reviving hopes for peace in the Middle East, makes France the first major Western power to take such a step.
Macron’s Open Letter to Palestinian Leadership
Macron shared a letter addressed to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on X, confirming France’s intentions.
“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,” Macron wrote.
A Landmark Shift in Western Diplomacy
France’s decision marks a significant break from the positions held by most of its Western allies.
Although several smaller nations have already recognised Palestine, France becomes the first G7 country to do so—potentially reshaping international momentum on the issue.
Israel Responds with Fury
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the decision, warning that it would embolden extremists.
“A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel — not to live in peace beside it,” he said, accusing France of rewarding terrorism.
Washington Stands Firm Against Macron’s Move
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was quick to rebuke France, calling the decision “reckless” and harmful to the peace process.
He warned that it would serve Hamas propaganda and insult victims of the October 7th attacks.
Canada Calls for Peace—but Criticises Israel
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney struck a different tone, urging both sides to pursue peace.
He condemned Israel’s role in the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its obstruction of Canadian-funded aid, while reiterating support for a two-state solution.
International Pushback
Macron had been weighing the recognition for months but encountered stiff resistance from allies, including the UK and Canada.
A planned international peace conference in June, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia, was postponed due to regional tensions and U.S. pressure.
A Delicate Diplomatic Dance in New York
Ahead of the UN General Assembly, a scaled-down ministerial summit will take place in New York. France aims to use the event to build a coalition of countries supportive of Palestinian statehood and to offer a unified front on parameters for a future peace agreement.
Israel Warns of Consequences for Bilateral Relations
Israeli officials reportedly warned France that recognition could severely damage diplomatic ties.
Potential responses include limiting intelligence cooperation and obstructing French-led regional initiatives, with some even hinting at further annexation in the West Bank.
Palestinian Authority Welcomes French Support
In a statement on X, Palestinian Authority Vice President Hussein Al Sheikh praised France’s decision as a “historic milestone” and a validation of Palestinians’ right to self-determination.
He thanked Macron for supporting their aspiration for an independent state.
