France Formally Recognizes Palestinian State, Joining Wave of Countries
PARIS (AP) — France formally recognized a Palestinian state on Monday, becoming the latest country to take this step in a growing international movement.
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron said "the time for peace has come" and that "nothing justifies the ongoing war in Gaza." The move comes as the international community ramps up pressure on Israel over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and settlement building in the West Bank.
Macron's announcement was met with applause from Palestinian officials and diplomats, who have been pushing for recognition of a sovereign state. "This is a historic moment for our people," said Saeb Erekat, chief negotiator for the Palestinians. "We hope that this recognition will be followed by concrete actions to end the occupation."
The move follows a wave of countries recognizing Palestine as a sovereign state in recent days. The UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal announced recognition on Sunday, while Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino are expected to follow suit.
The United States did not attend a one-day summit hosted by France and Saudi Arabia on Monday, which focused on plans for a two-state solution to the conflict. The US is due to address the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, along with leaders from key regional players such as Jordan and Qatar.
Israel has criticized the recognition of Palestine, saying it rewards Hamas for its October 2023 attack on Israeli civilians. "This decision will only serve to embolden terrorism," said an Israeli government spokesperson.
The international community has been increasingly critical of Israel's actions in Gaza, where a humanitarian crisis is unfolding. The United Nations has warned of a looming disaster, with thousands of Palestinians facing food and water shortages.
Background: The recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state has been a long-standing goal for the Palestinian leadership. In 2012, France became the first major Western country to recognize Palestine as a sovereign state, but it was met with opposition from Israel and some European countries.
Context: The move comes amid growing international pressure on Israel over its actions in Gaza and the West Bank. The United States has been criticized for its perceived bias towards Israel, while other countries have called for greater action to address the humanitarian crisis.
Perspectives:
"This is a major breakthrough for the Palestinian people," said a senior diplomat from the European Union. "We hope that this recognition will be followed by concrete actions to end the occupation."
"The international community must take a clear stance against Israeli aggression and support the rights of the Palestinian people," said a spokesperson for the Arab League.
Current Status: France's recognition of Palestine is seen as a significant development in the ongoing conflict. The move is expected to put pressure on other countries to follow suit, while also increasing tensions with Israel.
Next Developments:
The United States is due to address the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, where it is expected to outline its position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The leaders of key regional players such as Jordan and Qatar are also set to speak at the assembly.
The international community will be watching closely for any further developments in the conflict.
*Reporting by Bbc.*
