French President Emmanuel Macron declared that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September, calling the move consistent with its longstanding commitment to a just and enduring Middle East peace.

Macron, writing on X, emphasized that the decision aligns with international law and hopes to build “a collective dynamic” encouraging other nations to follow suit. He also linked recognition to conditions set by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, including institutional reforms, Hamas’ demilitarization, and upcoming elections in 2026.

France’s move positions it as the most influential Western and G‑7 country to take this step, joining a group of over 140 nations that already recognize Palestinian statehood. The announcement precedes a U.N.-hosted conference in New York on July 28–29 focused on a two-state solution and post-war planning.

Reactions were swift and polarized: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denounced the decision as “rewarding terror” and warned it could create a proxy threat, while U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned it as “reckless” and undermining peace efforts. In contrast, Palestinian officials welcomed Macron’s move as a reaffirmation of their right to self-determination and international law.