'Time for peace has come': Macron recognizes Palestinian State at UN summit

France recognises the state of Palestine at UN summit

French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday formally recognized the state of Palestine during a UN summit aimed at rallying international support for a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict, just a day ahead of the 2025 UN General Assembly in New York. Macron’s move prompted several Western governments to follow suit, angering Israel.

"The time for peace has come, as we are just moments away from no longer being able to seize it," Macron told the summit at the UN General Assembly hall.

He emphasized the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza: "The time has come to free the 48 hostages held by Hamas. The time has come to stop the war, the bombings of Gaza, the massacres and the displacement."

Macron called for efforts to preserve the two-state solution, stating, "We must pave the way for peace. We must do everything within our power to preserve the very possibility of a two-state solution, Israel and Palestine living side by side in peace and security." He concluded with a landmark declaration: "France recognises the state of Palestine," earning applause from attendees.

Other nations, including Australia, Britain, Canada, and Portugal, also extended recognition in a largely symbolic move, increasing diplomatic pressure on Israel as it continues military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in tens of thousands of casualties.

Macron earlier indicated that the release of hostages taken by Hamas during its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel would be a precondition for opening a French embassy in the Palestinian state.

Israel has consistently opposed recognition, with members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s far-right government considering annexation of the West Bank to preclude the establishment of a Palestinian state. Israel’s UN ambassador, Danny Danon, warned, "We will take action."