French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine during the United Nations General Assembly in September, citing a need to advance toward a two-state solution and end the war in Gaza.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a statement posted online on Thursday, Macron said the decision was consistent with France\u2019s historic commitment to a “just and lasting peace in the Middle East.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe urgent priority today is to end the war in Gaza and to bring relief to the civilian population,\u201d Macron said. \u201cWe need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and massive humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Macron said the recognition comes in light of commitments made by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, including organizing elections and assuming full governance over the Palestinian territories, including Gaza. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe must also ensure the demilitarization of Hamas, secure and rebuild Gaza. And finally, we must build the State of Palestine, guarantee its viability, and ensure that by accepting its demilitarization and fully recognizing Israel, it contributes to the security of all in the region,\u201d Macron wrote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a letter sent to Abbas and released by the \u00c9lys\u00e9e Palace, Macron reaffirmed France\u2019s support for a two-state solution and said France and Saudi Arabia will co-chair a high-level conference at the UN on the peaceful settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Macron also committed to mobilizing international support and said France\u2019s recognition of Palestine would be a \u201cdecisive contribution to peace in the Middle East.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n