French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognise a Palestinian state during the UN General Assembly in September. France is the most prominent European power to support Palestinian statehood, joining 142 other countries despite opposition from Israel and the United States. Below, we explore the announcement, its implications, and the reactions, based on Macron’s statement and reports from AFP.
Macron declared on X and Instagram: “True to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace, I have decided that France will recognise the State of Palestine at the UN General Assembly in September.” He emphasised ending the Gaza war and rescuing civilians as urgent priorities. He added: “We must build a viable Palestinian state, accepting its demilitarisation while fully recognising Israel to ensure regional security.”
Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine.
I will make this solemn announcement before the United Nations General Assembly this coming September.… pic.twitter.com/VTSVGVH41I
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 24, 2025With 142 countries recognising Palestine, France’s move amplifies European support amid ongoing Middle East tensions. The Gaza conflict, intensified by Hamas’s October 2023 attack on Israel, underscores the urgency. Israel and the U.S. oppose recognition, citing security concerns, while Palestinian leaders see it as a step toward self-determination.
#BREAKING Macron says he will formally announce France's recognition of Palestinian statehood at UN General Assembly in September pic.twitter.com/v0fIpaljwd
— AFP News Agency (@AFP) July 24, 2025Hussein al-Sheikh, deputy to Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas, welcomed the decision, stating: “This reflects France’s commitment to international law and the Palestinian people’s right to an independent state.” The announcement strengthens diplomatic momentum for the Palestinian cause.
France’s recognition could influence other Western nations and shape UN discussions. It aligns with calls for a two-state solution but faces challenges due to Israel’s stance and Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
Key Recognition Statistics
| Countries Recognizing Palestine | Notable Opponents | France’s Announcement Date |
|---|---|---|
| 142 | Israel, U.S. | July 24, 2025 |
Data source: AFP.
France’s pledge to recognise Palestine marks a pivotal diplomatic shift. As September approaches, global attention will focus on its impact on peace efforts.
