France To Recognize Palestinian State

French President Emmanuel Macron published a letter sent to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas on X, in which he confirmed France’s intention to recognize the Palestinian state. 

Fidèle à son engagement historique pour une paix juste et durable au Proche-Orient, j’ai décidé que la France reconnaîtra l’État de Palestine.

J’en ferai l’annonce solennelle à l’Assemblée générale des Nations unies, au mois de septembre prochain.… pic.twitter.com/7yQLkqoFWC

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 24, 2025

France will become the first Western country to recognize Palestine, with the decision to be announced at the UN General Assembly in September. 

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the move as “a disgrace and a surrender to terrorism,” adding that Israel would not allow the establishment of a “Palestinian entity that would harm our security, endanger our existence.”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also strongly criticized the French decision, saying on X that the United States “strongly rejects” Macron’s plan, adding

This reckless decision only serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace. It is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th.

The United States strongly rejects @EmmanuelMacron’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state at the @UN general assembly.

This reckless decision only serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace. It is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th.

— Secretary Marco Rubio (@SecRubio) July 25, 2025