France Recognizes State of Palestine amid UN Summit, Signaling Diplomatic Shift

On September 22, 2025, during a high-level summit at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron announced France's official recognition of the State of Palestine. This decision aligns with France's longstanding commitment to a two-state solution as the path to lasting peace in the Middle East.

President Macron's declaration was made at a summit co-hosted with Saudi Arabia, focusing on reviving the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In his address, Macron stated, "We have gathered here because the time has come... It falls on us, this responsibility, to do everything in our power to preserve the possibility of a two-state solution." He further declared, "Today, I declare that France recognizes the state of Palestine."

Alongside France, five other European nations—Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco—also declared their recognition of Palestinian statehood during the summit. This collective move increases the number of UN member states recognizing Palestine to over 150.

The recognition comes amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, where Israeli military operations have resulted in significant Palestinian casualties and a humanitarian crisis. The international community has been increasingly critical of Israel's actions, with calls for a ceasefire and renewed efforts toward a two-state solution.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the recognitions, arguing that they reward terrorism and undermine Israel's security. He emphasized that such moves could embolden groups like Hamas and complicate peace efforts.

The United States and Israel boycotted the summit, with Israel's UN ambassador, Danny Danon, describing the event as a "circus."

This development marks a significant shift in European diplomatic stances and has potential implications for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, influencing future negotiations and international relations in the region.

France, a founding member of the United Nations and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, has historically played an active role in Middle Eastern diplomacy. The State of Palestine declared independence in 1988 and is recognized by a majority of UN member states. However, it lacks full UN membership and faces ongoing territorial disputes with Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, serving multiple terms, is known for his hardline stance on security and opposition to unilateral recognition of Palestinian statehood.

While many countries have recognized Palestinian statehood since the 1988 declaration of independence, major Western powers have been hesitant. France's recognition represents a significant policy shift and may influence other nations to follow suit.

This development marks a pivotal moment in international diplomacy concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The collective move underscores a growing international consensus on the need for a two-state solution and may have far-reaching implications for future peace efforts in the region.