French President Emmanuel Macron is considering a historic step toward recognizing a Palestinian state, as momentum for a two-state solution appears to be slipping away and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict deepens, reports Reuters.
Although a final decision has yet to be made, diplomatic sources say Macron is leaning in favor of formal recognition — a move that would make France the first major Western power and G7 member to take such a stance. The decision is expected to be influenced by developments at a high-level United Nations conference, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia from June 17 to 20.
“We must move from words to deeds. Irreversible and concrete measures are necessary to maintain the prospect of a Palestinian state,” Macron’s Middle East adviser, Anne-Claire Legendre, told a preparatory meeting in New York last week.
Macron’s evolving position comes amid mounting international concern over Israel’s intensified military operations in Gaza and a surge in settler violence in the West Bank. The Palestinian death toll has surpassed 50,000, according to health officials in Gaza, prompting calls for urgent diplomatic action.
Israeli Pressure and Geopolitical Ripples
The Israeli government has responded forcefully to the possibility of French recognition. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials have warned Paris of serious repercussions, including reduced intelligence cooperation and the potential derailment of French-led regional initiatives.
Some Israeli officials have described the recognition of a Palestinian state by France as a “nuclear bomb” for bilateral relations, signaling a dramatic escalation in already strained ties.
Nonetheless, French officials indicate they are prepared to withstand political backlash. According to one senior official in the Élysée Palace,
“If there is a moment in history to recognize a Palestinian state — even if it’s just symbolic — then that moment has probably come.”
International Response Divided
European allies are watching France’s next steps closely. Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide has suggested that a French decision could set off a domino effect within the European Union, pushing other nations to follow suit. However, others remain skeptical.
“There is concern that early recognition, without accompanying political measures or negotiations, might reduce incentives for Palestinian leadership to engage,” said one EU diplomat.
Critics argue that recognition must be paired with stronger measures — such as sanctions against illegal Israeli settlements and pressure on Israeli leadership — to have a tangible impact.
Macron’s Legacy and Strategic Calculations
Macron initially stood firmly with Israel following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, but his rhetoric has gradually shifted as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsened. In a televised interview last month, Macron stated:
“We need to move towards recognition. Over the next few months, we will.“
Behind the scenes, Macron is said to be motivated not only by geopolitics but also by a desire to leave a lasting mark on the international stage before his term ends in 2027.
Meanwhile, the Élysée is conducting detailed assessments on the reform of the Palestinian Authority, disarmament of Hamas, and plans for Gaza’s reconstruction — elements seen as crucial to building international consensus.
A Turning Point?
While no Arab states have moved toward normalizing ties with Israel in the current climate, Saudi Arabia reiterated its support for Palestinian statehood during the recent UN meeting.
“Regional peace begins with recognizing the state of Palestine, not as a symbolic gesture, but as a strategic necessity,” said Manal Radwan, adviser to the Saudi foreign minister.
As the world awaits France’s decision, the move could redefine Europe’s approach to the Middle East and reshape diplomatic alignments for years to come.
