In a historic diplomatic shift, French President Emmanuel Macron announced on July 24, 2025, that France will officially recognise the State of Palestine, with a formal declaration scheduled for the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025. The announcement marks France as the first major Western power and G7 member to endorse Palestine’s statehood—an initiative Macron frames as a pathway to reinvigorate the two‑state peace process in the Middle East.
The decision is spurred by mounting humanitarian concerns in Gaza and a desire to uphold international law, balanced with demands for security guarantees and demilitarisation from Palestinian leadership.
Background: France and the Two‑State Solution
Macron’s evolving stance
Macron has long indicated openness to recognising a Palestinian state. As early as February 2024, he suggested recognition was “not a taboo” for France. Over the past year, increased Francophone and EU momentum—notably from Norway, Ireland, Spain, and Slovenia—have paved the way for Macron’s decisive action.
France has consistently backed a two‑state solution, advocating for mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine, a shared Jerusalem capital, and a secure Palestinian state within internationally accepted borders.
International context
Currently, 147 of 193 UN states recognise Palestine, including major powers like China, India, and Russia, while key Western nations—the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Canada—have withheld official recognition pending comprehensive peace negotiations.
This new stance by France, a leading military and economic power, significantly shifts the Western political landscape and may encourage other G7 and EU members to follow suit.
Macron’s Announcement
What was said
On July 24, 2025, Macron announced via a post on X (formerly Twitter) and a personal letter to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas that France will recognise the Palestinian state at the upcoming UN General Assembly meeting in September.
He emphasized that France’s decision aligns with its “historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East”.
Conditions and expectations
Macron stressed that recognition must lead to:
- An immediate ceasefire in Gaza,
- The release of hostages,
- Massive humanitarian aid to Gaza’s civilians,
- The demilitarisation of Hamas, and
- A viable, demilitarised Palestinian state that fully recognises Israel’s right to exist.
He framed recognition not as rewarding appeasement, but as a means to build momentum toward a peaceful, two‑state resolution.
Reactions to the Announcement
Israel’s condemnation
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the move, claiming it “rewards terror” and “risks creating another Iranian proxy,” stating a Palestinian state would be a “launch pad to annihilate Israel”—not a path to peace.
Defence Minister Israel Katz called the decision “a disgrace and a surrender to terrorism,” warning it would jeopardise Israeli security.
Some Israeli voices even urged closing France’s consulate in East Jerusalem and suggested diplomats relocate to Ramallah.
U.S. and other Western disapproval
The U.S. State Department, led by Secretary Marco Rubio, described Macron’s announcement as “reckless,” asserting it aids Hamas propaganda and is “a slap in the face to the victims of October 7”.
Earlier resistance from the U.S. included threats of policy consequences and unsigning a planned UN conference. The U.S. has also suspended participation in cease‑fire talks in Qatar in protest.
Canada & allies
Canadian PM Mark Carney backed a two‑state solution but accused Israel of breaching international law, urging ceasefire and respect for West Bank and Gaza integrity.
Other countries including the UK, Australia, and 21 additional Israeli allies have joined demands for a Gaza ceasefire and better aid access.
Palestinian leaders and regional feedback
Palestinian Authority officials, such as Hussein al‑Sheikh, praised the announcement, saying it reflects France’s commitment to international law and Palestinian self‑determination.
Hamas also responded positively, calling the move a positive step toward justice, urging others to follow.
Spain’s PM Pedro Sánchez commended Macron’s decision, reaffirming Spain’s support for Palestinian recognition since May 2024.
Strategic Timing & Diplomatic Implications
Momentum before the UN conferences
Macron announced recognition ahead of a scheduled UN ministerial meeting (July 28–29) and the General Assembly in September, intending to create a diplomatic framework that encourages peers to follow.
His team believes the recognition could “create momentum” for other G7 or EU countries contemplating similar declarations.
Risks and leverage
Israel reportedly warned France of possible consequences—ranging from intelligence sharing cuts to threats of annexation in the West Bank—if recognition moved forward.
Despite potential backlash, Macron appears determined to prioritise the broader two‑state goal, even if it strains bilateral ties.
What Recognition Entails
Formal recognition at the UN
While France formally supports Palestine as a non‑member observer state, this step elevates its diplomatic status. The announcement at the September UNGA session will mark France’s de jure recognition.
As of mid‑2025, 147 UN member states recognize Palestine; France’s move bolsters this majority and may influence other key EU nations.
Legal and diplomatic effects
Official recognition enables:
- Establishment of full diplomatic relations (e.g., embassies),
- Formal bilateral treaties with Palestine,
- Political leverage to call for state rights and protections under international law,
- Potential shifts in EU and UN dynamics, especially around funding and resolutions in Security Council.
Challenges & Criticisms
Security concerns
Opponents argue recognising Palestine amid ongoing conflict reward militants like Hamas and may undermine Israeli security.
Israeli officials view the move as prematurely legitimising a state not yet committed to peace or responsible governance.
U.S. disapproval and global impact
As a leading global power, U.S. opposition carries significant weight. Its withdrawal from peace talks could hinder broader diplomatic progress.
Despite official resistance, some U.S. voices—like former administrations and humanitarian groups—show sympathy for recognition and ceasefire momentum.
Domestic politics and EU cohesion
Within France, public opinion is split: the Jewish and Muslim communities are both highly engaged, and Macron faces pressure balancing historical support for Israel with human rights advocacy.
Macron will need EU cooperation, yet partners like Germany and Britain have stayed cautious. He may face diplomatic divergence unless broader consensus emerges.
Conclusion
France’s decision to formally recognise the State of Palestine in September 2025 marks a transformative moment in Western diplomacy and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
By becoming the first major Western nation to take this step, France signals a renewed push for a two‑state solution, aiming to revitalize peace efforts and humanitarian relief in Gaza.
Despite opposition from Israel, the U.S., and within Europe, Macron’s move reflects a strategic gamble: leveraging recognition to reignite stalled diplomacy, foster international solidarity, and apply pressure for a sustainable ceasefire.
As we approach the UN General Assembly in September, the world will watch: Will France’s leadership persuade other Western powers to follow—or will it deepen fractures in Western support? Time will tell whether this gambit becomes a catalyst for peace or a new flashpoint in an intractable conflict.
FAQ
1. When and how will France recognise Palestine?
France has committed to formally recognising the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September 2025, following President Macron’s announcement on July 24, 2025.
2. What prompted this decision now?
Macron cited a desire to revive the two‑state solution, address the Gaza humanitarian crisis (including mass casualties and famine), and build momentum before significant UN conferences in July and September.
3. How have Israel and the U.S. responded?
Israel strongly condemned the move, calling it a “reward for terror” and potential threat to its security.
The U.S. described it as “reckless,” aligned with Hamas propaganda, and withdrew from upcoming peace talks.
4. What do Palestinians say?
The Palestinian Authority welcomed the announcement as a reaffirmation of their right to self-determination under international law.
Hamas also called it a positive step and urged global follow‑through.
5. Could other countries follow France?
Possibly. Macron hopes his move will inspire other EU and G7 nations to label Palestine a state. Countries like Spain, Ireland, Norway, and Slovenia already have. The July ministerial conference may serve as another launch point.