'Reckless and shameful': US, Israel slam France’s decision to recognize Palestinian state

US rejects France's move to recognise Palestine

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has strongly criticised France's decision to formally recognise the state of Palestine, calling it “a slap in the face to the victims of the October 7 attack.”

His statement, posted on X, came shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron announced the recognition would be made official during the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session in September.

Both the United States and Israel denounced the move. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the decision “rewards terror” and poses a serious threat to Israel’s national security.

"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," Rubio posted on X.

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

This followed French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France will officially recognize the state of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly in September. Macron stated the move is aimed at advancing peace efforts in the Middle East.