France to recognise Palestinian state in landmark UN declaration

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will formally recognise the State of Palestine in September during his address to the United Nations General Assembly — a move seen as a significant shift in European diplomacy and the first of its kind by a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

In a statement reviewed by Libyan Express, the French president said that recognising Palestinian statehood is essential for achieving a just and lasting peace in the Middle East. He called it the only viable path to ending the war in Gaza and alleviating the suffering of civilians.

France will become the first G7 country and the first permanent member of the Security Council to officially extend recognition to the State of Palestine, joining over 140 UN member states that have already done so.

Macron linked the decision to a broader political framework that includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, large-scale humanitarian assistance to Gaza, and the reconstruction of the territory under secure and internationally supported conditions. He said any long-term peace must include the establishment of a viable Palestinian state that is demilitarised and recognises the State of Israel.

The announcement followed a letter from Macron to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, in which he affirmed France’s commitment to a two-state solution and expressed hope that other European countries would join the initiative. Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognised Palestine earlier this year.

The Palestinian Authority welcomed France’s position, with senior official Hussein al-Sheikh describing the move as consistent with international law and the rights of the Palestinian people.

In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the decision, calling it “a reward for terrorism,” while other Israeli officials warned it could undermine regional security. The Israeli government has consistently opposed unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood, arguing it should come only through direct negotiations.

Although France’s recognition will not automatically grant Palestine full UN membership — which remains blocked by a United States veto in the Security Council — it adds diplomatic momentum to the Palestinian bid for international legitimacy. The announcement also comes ahead of a UN-backed peace conference expected to convene in New York later this month.

Macron concluded his statement by reaffirming France’s historical role in supporting peace efforts in the region, stating that trust, clarity, and commitment will be necessary to secure a lasting resolution.