France to recognise Palestinian state in September, first among G7 nations
New Delhi, July 25: France will officially recognise the State of Palestine in September, becoming the first G7 country to make such a move. President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the decision in a social media post, indicating that a formal announcement will be made during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York.
The decision comes amid continued violence in Gaza and rising international calls for a ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and renewed diplomatic efforts to achieve a two-state solution. France has framed the recognition as part of its longstanding support for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, while also stressing the importance of demilitarising Hamas and ensuring the security of Israel, reports the BBC.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions globally. Palestinian officials welcomed the move as a reaffirmation of their right to self-determination. In contrast, Israeli leaders condemned it, arguing that recognition under current conditions undermines peace and rewards terrorism, particularly in the aftermath of the October 2023 Hamas attack.
The recognition adds momentum to efforts by several European countries pushing for Palestinian statehood. Over 140 UN member states already recognise Palestine, though most G7 members, including the US, UK, and Germany have yet to follow suit.
The announcement also comes as aid agencies continue to warn of severe malnutrition and looming famine in Gaza. With access to humanitarian supplies tightly controlled, international pressure on Israel has mounted, though Israeli authorities maintain that there is no blockade and accuse Hamas of diverting aid. France’s recognition of Palestine may signal a shift in Western diplomatic engagement on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, potentially increasing pressure on other major powers to follow suit.
