President Emmanuel Macron is set to formally recognize a Palestinian state in New York on Monday, aligning with several other European countries and describing France’s initiative as a “necessity.” This significant diplomatic step follows similar decisions by the UK, Canada, and Australia. Macron stated that this action would mark the “beginning of a political process and a peace and security plan for everybody.” France, holding considerable diplomatic influence as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and the G7, is coordinating this effort with Saudi Arabia during the UN General Assembly this week.
However, two other major European G7 nations, Germany and Italy, along with the United States, will not be joining France in this recognition.
Israel has strongly condemned the move, labeling it a reward for Hamas. Israel’s UN ambassador dismissed the event as a “circus.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his stance against a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, while President Isaac Herzog warned that recognition would “embolden the forces of darkness.”
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized that France’s decision is a “categorical rejection” of Hamas, not a reward. He characterized it as “symbolic, immediate, and political, demonstrating France’s commitment to the two-state solution.” Barrot hailed Macron’s declaration as a “great diplomatic victory for our country.” Paris has indicated that Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino will also formally recognize a Palestinian state, with Portugal making its announcement on Sunday.
Several European nations, including Spain and Norway, have already recognized a Palestinian state. Yet, some French commentators view Macron’s decision as a risky gamble that may have limited impact on the ground.
In a CBS News interview, Macron outlined a phased plan designed to isolate Hamas, beginning with a ceasefire and the release of hostages, followed by the stabilization of Gaza. The second phase would address governance and reconstruction, with the third phase focusing on the “perspective of two states.” He stressed that opening a French embassy would be contingent on the release of all Hamas-held hostages.
Despite the strategic aims, Macron’s prominent role at the UN has drawn criticism from political opponents within France. Jordan Bardella of the National Rally called the move a “mistake, while Hamas still holds Israeli hostages,” arguing it rewards the atrocities of October 7th.
On Sunday night, the Palestinian and Israeli flags were displayed on the Eiffel Tower ahead of Macron’s announcement, and many French towns also flew Palestinian flags on Monday, despite government directives for neutrality. Pro-Palestinian protests and strikes occurred across Italy, with students disrupting classes in Turin and Bologna. In Germany, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that while recognition of a Palestinian state would come at the end of a process, that process must commence now. Despite Germany’s strong alliance with Israel, Chancellor Friedrich Merz has increasingly voiced criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. The European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has also intensified her criticism of the events in Gaza.