Macron announces intent to recognize the State of Palestine

France will officially recognize the State of Palestine in September, French President Emmanuel Macron said in an X post.

Macron stated that the formal announcement will be made at the U.N. General Assembly in New York.

“I have decided that, in accordance with France’s historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, France will recognize the State of Palestine. I will make this important announcement before the General Assembly of the U.N. next September. Today, the urgent priorities are stopping the war in Gaza and alleviating the humanitarian situation of the civilian population. Peace is possible,” Macron wrote.

He added that an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and broad humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza are necessary, along with the demilitarization of Hamas and the reconstruction of Gaza.

Palestinian officials welcomed Macron’s decision, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that this move would be a “gift to terrorism,” following Hamas’s attack on Oct. 7, 2023.