France has officially recognised the State of Palestine, joining the UK, Canada, and Australia in a move that is reshaping global diplomacy.
Macron: “We Can No Longer Wait”
Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron said the recognition was long overdue. “We can no longer wait,” he told world leaders, stressing that Palestinians deserve the right to statehood and peace.
Palestinian and UN Leaders Welcome Step
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas also addressed the assembly, outlining hopes for a future in Gaza without Hamas. He said the recognition by major Western nations was a sign that Palestinians’ struggle for freedom is finally gaining wider acceptance.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly supported the move, declaring that “statehood for Palestinians is a right and not a reward.”
UK, Australia, and Canada Recognize State of Palestine in Landmark Policy Change
Israel Pushes Back
Israel, however, has firmly rejected the development. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government insists there will be no two-state solution under current conditions. Israel did not take part in today’s speeches.
Guterres warned Israel not to respond by annexing more of the West Bank, but Israel’s UN ambassador said the matter would be left to Netanyahu and his cabinet after his upcoming White House visit.
US Remains Silent
The United States did not comment on the decision. Former President Donald Trump’s administration had previously opposed recognition of Palestine. US President Joe Biden is expected to address the UN tomorrow when the world body marks its 80th anniversary.
A Growing International Shift
France’s decision adds momentum to a growing wave of Western countries recognising Palestinian statehood. This coordinated action is seen as a way to pressure Israel back into negotiations and revive hopes of a peaceful two-state solution.
