PARIS /PNN/ Monjed Jadou -
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly in September, in a letter addressed to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas dated July 24, 2025.
The move, Macron said, is a direct response to the "courageous commitments" expressed by the Palestinian leadership in their June 9 letter, including support for a two-state solution, condemnation of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, and pledges to implement democratic reforms and assume full sovereign responsibility across all Palestinian territories, including the Gaza Strip.
“I salute these brave commitments,” Macron wrote, adding that France remains fully mobilized in support of a two-state solution, with Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security — the only viable path, he said, to meet the legitimate aspirations of both peoples.
Macron reiterated that the civilian toll from both the Hamas-led attacks on October 7 and the ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza is “intolerable.” He acknowledged the diminishing prospects of a negotiated peace but insisted he will not abandon efforts toward a just resolution.
“This is why France, alongside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, will co-chair a high-level international conference at the United Nations aimed at advancing a peaceful settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the implementation of the two-state solution,” Macron stated.
The French president affirmed that, based on the commitments made by the Palestinian Authority — including its intention to organize presidential and legislative elections in 2026 and uphold a demilitarized vision for a future Palestinian state — France will move forward with official recognition.
France, Macron added, aims to contribute decisively to peace in the Middle East and will rally international partners willing to join in the effort.
He also pledged close attention to efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas, the disarmament of the group, and the empowerment of the Palestinian Authority across all Palestinian territories.
“I am counting on your firm efforts to secure a lasting peace between the Palestinian and Israeli peoples,” Macron concluded, addressing Abbas with “my highest respect and appreciation.”
