Macron’s recognition of the Palestinian state sparks global backlash
French President Emmanuel Macron‘s decision to formally recognise a Palestinian state during the upcoming UN General Assembly in September has drawn sharp criticism from both the United States and Israel.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the move, calling it “a slap in the face to the victims of the October 7 attack.” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Macron of “rewarding terror,” warning that the recognition could create another Iranian-backed entity threatening Israel’s security.
France joins growing list of countries supporting Palestinian Statehood
France will become the most influential European country to recognise Palestine, joining 142 nations that either already recognise or plan to recognise Palestinian statehood. Macron defended the move by pointing to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for an end to the war and the establishment of a demilitarised Palestinian state that acknowledges Israel’s right to exist.
US and Israeli leaders condemn Macron’s decision
Rubio, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), described the recognition as a “reckless decision that only serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace.”
Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed the move would enable the creation of another militant enclave akin to Gaza, potentially becoming “a launch pad to annihilate Israel.” Israeli Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Levin went further, calling the move “a black mark on French history” and suggesting that Israel should respond by asserting sovereignty over the West Bank.
Palestinian Authority and Hamas welcome Macron’s announcement
Palestinian Authority official Hussein al-Sheikh welcomed the French move, saying it reflected “France’s commitment to international law and the Palestinian right to self-determination.”
Hamas also praised Macron’s pledge as a “positive step” and called on other nations, particularly in Europe, to follow France’s lead in recognising Palestinian Statehood.
International responses highlight growing divide
Countries like Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, and Norway have already recognised Palestinian statehood amid the Gaza conflict. Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, applauded Macron’s stance, warning that Israeli actions threaten the viability of a two-state solution. Saudi Arabia also praised the decision, labelling it “historic.”
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans for coordinated talks with France and Germany to address the crisis and push toward a ceasefire.
The human cost of conflict
According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israel’s military campaign has resulted in 59,587 Palestinian deaths, primarily civilians. Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023 left 1,219 Israelis dead, mostly civilians, based on reports.
As Macron pushes ahead with plans to formalise France’s recognition of Palestine, the move continues to stir deep global divisions over the path to peace in the Middle East.
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