Macron confirms Palestine recognition at UNGA; Netanyahu condemns 'treasonous' move

Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will officially recognise the State of Palestine during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) in September. This diplomatic move comes amid mounting global anger over the ongoing humanitarian crisis and starvation in Gaza.

Macron emphasised the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and the delivery of massive humanitarian aid. In a formal letter to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, he reiterated that the only viable solution for legitimate Palestinian aspirations, an end to terrorism, and lasting peace and security for Israel and the wider region is the two-state solution.

The decision positions France to become the first of the Group of Seven (G7) major industrialised nations—which includes the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Japan, and Italy—to formally recognise a Palestinian state. This follows Macron's earlier indication in April that France would recognise Palestine during an international conference, initially planned for June but postponed to late July under US pressure.

Macron stressed that the recognition aims to "build the State of Palestine, ensure its viability, and ensure that by accepting its demilitarisation and fully recognising Israel, it contributes to the security of all in the Middle East."

The announcement has drawn strong condemnation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He stated that Israel "strongly condemns Macron's decision" and warned that a Palestinian state, especially "in the wake of the October 7 massacre," could become "a launchpad to annihilate Israel" rather than coexist peacefully. Israel has consistently argued that such recognition would reward Hamas terrorism and has accused Macron of leading "a crusade against the Jewish state," indicating further strain on bilateral relations.

The French announcement also coincided with the US and Israel reportedly walking away from Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar, citing a lack of good faith from Hamas.

With inputs from IANS