President Emmanuel Macron is set to formally recognize a Palestinian state on Monday in New York, a move that aligns France with other European countries and is described as a “necessity.” This development follows similar recognitions by the UK, Canada, and Australia. Macron stated that this action signifies the “beginning of a political process and a peace and security plan for everybody.” France, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a G7 member, is coordinating this initiative with Saudi Arabia during the UN General Assembly. However, prominent G7 nations Germany and Italy, along with the United States, have not joined France in this declaration.
Israel has criticized the move, labeling it a reward for Hamas and calling the UN event a “circus.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his stance against a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, with President Isaac Herzog warning that recognition would “embolden the forces of darkness.”
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized that the decision is a “categorical rejection” of Hamas and a “symbolic, immediate, and political” commitment to a two-state solution. He hailed it as a “great diplomatic victory for our country.” Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino are also expected to announce their formal recognition, with Portugal having already done so. While other European countries like Spain and Norway have previously recognized a Palestinian state, some analysts view France’s move as a gamble that might not significantly alter the situation on the ground.
France displayed the Palestinian and Israeli flags on the Eiffel Tower on Sunday night, and numerous town halls across France flew the Palestinian flag on Monday, despite a government directive for neutrality. Similar pro-Palestinian demonstrations and transport disruptions occurred in Italy, where the government deemed recognition premature. In Germany, while acknowledging the need for a process to begin, the government stated that recognizing a Palestinian state is not currently on the agenda. Despite being a close ally of Israel, Germany’s Chancellor has expressed growing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
European Union officials have also intensified their criticism of Israel’s conduct. Macron outlined a phased plan in a recent interview, aiming to isolate Hamas, starting with a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and stabilization of Gaza. The subsequent phases would focus on governance, reconstruction, and ultimately, the “perspective of two states.” He stressed that opening a French embassy would be contingent on the release of hostages.
Despite the diplomatic weight of France’s announcement, some domestic political opponents, like Jordan Bardella of the National Rally, have criticized the timing, deeming it a “mistake” while Hamas still holds Israeli hostages and calling it a reward for the October 7th attacks.