France Plans Palestine Recognition in September Amid Regional Backlash

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognize the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September, a move welcomed by the Gulf Cooperation Council and Palestinian leaders as a step toward justice and peace in the Middle East. Macron emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian aid, demilitarization of Hamas, and a viable Palestinian state contributing to regional security. The announcement sparked strong condemnation from Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who argued that recognition would reward terror and threaten Israel's security, while far-right Israeli politicians called for annexation of the West Bank in response. The United States, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials, also rejected Macron's plan, viewing it as counterproductive and harmful to peace efforts following the October 7 attacks by Hamas. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for a ceasefire as a prerequisite to recognizing Palestine, highlighting ongoing international efforts to address the Gaza crisis. Macron's decision positions France as the first G7 nation to recognize Palestine, prompting discussions among European leaders and international actors on the conflict and peace prospects.