The announcement by French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday that France will recognise Palestine as a state drew immediate backlash from Israel and the US. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the decision, calling it a “reward for terror” that could empower Iran-backed groups.
“A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel — not to live in peace beside it,” Netanyahu posted on X. “The Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel.”
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant termed the move “a disgrace and surrender to terrorism,” vowing to block any Palestinian entity that threatens Israel’s security.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also rejected Macron’s plan, stating it “serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace.”
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Israel to address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and reiterated support for a two-state solution. He accused Israel of blocking Canadian-funded aid, violating international law, and demanded an immediate ceasefire.
“Canada calls on all sides to negotiate in good faith,” Carney said, also pressing Hamas to release hostages and Israel to respect Palestinian territories.
A June US diplomatic cable revealed Washington’s opposition to unilateral Palestinian recognition, warning it could harm US interests. Former US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee even suggested an independent Palestine was no longer a US policy goal.
Macron had reportedly considered recognition for months, despite pressure. France and Saudi Arabia initially planned a June UN conference to outline a Palestinian state roadmap, but it was postponed due to US objections and the Israel-Iran conflict.
The event was rescheduled as a ministerial meeting on July 28-29, with a larger summit planned alongside September’s UNGA.
Israeli officials have lobbied intensely to prevent recognition, saying that Palestinian state recognition now would reward Hamas.