French President Emmanuel Macron made history at the United Nations by formally announcing France's recognition of the State of Palestine. The declaration, which drew a lengthy standing ovation, was hailed as a turning point in efforts to resolve the decades-long Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Macron described the decision as both "historic and necessary" for achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.Speaking at the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, Macron emphasized that the moment demanded courage and clarity. He declared, "The time has come to end the war in Gaza, free the remaining Israeli hostages, and revive the two-state solution." His words underscored the urgency of halting violence and rekindling hope for dialogue.
Macron strongly condemned the ongoing Gaza war, stressing that nothing justifies its continuation. He invoked the 1947 UN Partition Plan, reminding the global audience that while Israel's statehood was realized, Palestine's right to sovereignty remains unfulfilled. Recognition, he argued, is not an act against Israel but rather an affirmation of justice for both peoples.
He further stated, "The recognition of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people takes nothing away from the rights of the people of Israel." By positioning recognition as a balanced step, Macron sought to reassure skeptics that peace requires fairness, not favoritism.
France's decision was not an isolated move. Several nations, including Australia, Belgium, Canada, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, the UK, and others, joined in extending recognition to Palestine. This growing coalition reflects an emerging international consensus in favor of a two-state solution.
Together with Saudi Arabia, France presented the "New York Declaration," adopted by a majority at the UN General Assembly. The declaration outlined three priorities: an immediate ceasefire and hostage release, stabilization and reconstruction of Gaza under transitional Palestinian administration, and governance reforms excluding Hamas.
Macron's bold step has elevated momentum toward global recognition of Palestine, signaling a shift in international diplomacy. By framing peace as a shared responsibility, he has placed the world on notice that the path forward must prioritize justice, dignity, and coexistence for both Palestinians and Israelis.Source: