France Formally Recognizes Palestinian State Amid International Pressure on Israel
PARIS (AP) — France has formally recognized a Palestinian state, becoming the latest country to take this step in a wave of international recognition. President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, saying "the time for peace has come" and that "nothing justifies the ongoing war in Gaza."
Macron's statement was part of a one-day summit hosted by France and Saudi Arabia on plans for a two-state solution to the conflict. The summit brought together representatives from over 30 countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino, which also announced their intention to recognize Palestine.
The move comes as international pressure mounts on Israel over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and settlement building in the West Bank. More than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israel since 2023, according to Hamas's estimates. The recognition of a Palestinian state is seen as a significant step towards resolving the decades-long conflict.
"This decision recognizes the right of the Palestinian people to self-determination," Macron said at the UN. "It is now up to the parties concerned to take concrete steps towards peace."
The United States, Germany, Italy, and other G7 countries did not attend the summit, sparking criticism from some European leaders. The UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal announced their recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday.
Israel has condemned the move, saying it would reward Hamas for its October 2023 attack on southern Israel that killed over 1,200 people and took hundreds hostage. "This decision will only encourage more violence and extremism," said an Israeli government spokesperson.
The international community has been increasingly vocal in its criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza. The European Union has imposed sanctions on several Israeli officials, and the United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire.
The recognition of a Palestinian state is seen as a significant step towards resolving the conflict, but it remains to be seen whether this will lead to concrete action on the ground. The next steps will likely involve negotiations between Israel and Palestine, with international support.
In related news, the International Committee of the Red Cross has called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, citing the humanitarian crisis as a major concern. "The situation is catastrophic," said a spokesperson for the organization. "We need to see an end to this violence and a return to negotiations."
The recognition of a Palestinian state by France and other countries marks a significant shift in international opinion on the conflict. As the world watches, it remains to be seen whether this will lead to lasting peace or continued violence.
AP writers contributed to this report from Paris, New York, and Jerusalem.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
