NEW YORK – In a landmark diplomatic move, France formally recognised the State of Palestine on September 22, 2025, during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
President Emmanuel Macron announced the decision as part of a broader European effort to revive the stalled two-state solution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.
Addressing world leaders at the UN, Macron described the recognition as “a way of affirming that the path to peace must include equal dignity and sovereignty for both peoples”.
The announcement aligns France with over 157 UN member states that have already recognised Palestine, including recent European adopters such as Spain, Norway, Ireland, and Slovenia in 2024.
France’s decision comes amid growing international pressure to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and reinvigorate peace negotiations.
While the move was welcomed by Palestinian officials, it drew sharp criticism from Israel, whose ambassador condemned the timing and implications of the recognition.
Despite internal divisions within the European Union, only 15 of its 27 members now recognise Palestine, France’s stance is seen as an attempt to reassert European leadership in Middle East diplomacy.
The French government emphasized that recognition does not replace negotiations, but aims to create a more balanced framework for future talks.
Sources: Reuters, Al Jazeera, BBC News, Le Monde
