In a controversial move drawing criticism from Israel leaders and analysts, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state this September, despite the ongoing war with Hamas and the group’s continued refusal to disarm or release Israeli hostages.
Macron’s decision, which he plans to formalize at the United Nations General Assembly, risks undermining long-standing diplomatic frameworks that call for a negotiated peace process between Israel and the Palestinians. Critics argue it sends the wrong message at a time when Israel is still reeling from the October 7 Hamas massacre and working to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure embedded in Gaza.
“France recognizes the right of Palestinians to a state of their own,” Macron said on social media, without acknowledging that the de facto rulers of Gaza, Hamas, continue to call for Israel’s destruction and reject any two-state solution.
Israel has condemned past attempts at unilateral recognition, stating it rewards terror and sidelines peace. Though Israel has not yet officially responded, one senior Israeli official told local media that Macron’s announcement “emboldens extremists and punishes the only democracy in the Middle East.”
The timing of France’s decision is raising eyebrows. Macron’s declaration comes amid a humanitarian crisis in Gaza — a crisis many say was created in large part by Hamas, which diverts aid, uses civilians as human shields, and refuses to allow ceasefires that would benefit its own people.
Washington reiterated its opposition to unilateral moves on Palestinian statehood. “A lasting solution can only be achieved through direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians,” a U.S. State Department spokesperson said Wednesday.
France would be the most influential Western country to take this step, joining smaller European nations such as Norway, Ireland, and Spain, which have recently recognized a Palestinian state — moves seen by many as symbolic rather than constructive.
Critics warn that legitimizing a Palestinian state now, before key issues such as disarmament, security guarantees, and recognition of Israel’s right to exist are addressed, risks locking in instability rather than promoting peace.
Meanwhile, Hamas continues to hold 50 Israeli hostages and has violated multiple ceasefire attempts brokered by the international community.
Israel maintains it remains committed to a negotiated two-state solution — but only when its security can be guaranteed and peace partners renounce violence and terror.
As France prepares to formalize its stance at the UN in September, questions remain about whether Macron’s move will isolate France diplomatically, strain its relationship with Jerusalem, or embolden Hamas as it continues its war against the Jewish state.
