Palestine Welcomes France's Recognition of Its State and Describes It as a Historic Step

The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed France's recognition of the State of Palestine, considering it a "historic and courageous" decision that aligns with international law and United Nations resolutions, and contributes to supporting peace efforts and implementing the two-state solution.

The ministry praised the role played by Paris and President Emmanuel Macron in encouraging other countries to take similar steps, and in rallying international support to ensure the success of the two-state solution conferences and their outcomes in partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

It affirmed in its statement Palestine's keenness to enhance and develop bilateral relations with France in various fields, calling on countries that have not yet recognized it to expedite their recognition of the State of Palestine "to protect the two-state solution." It also urged active engagement in international efforts to stop the war immediately, protect civilians, and open a political path that ends the occupation and guarantees the Palestinian people's right to self-determination in accordance with international law and the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday evening, September 22, from the podium of the United Nations General Assembly, the official recognition of the State of Palestine by his country, affirming that this decision comes "in fulfillment of France's historic commitment in the Middle East," and stated: "We can no longer wait to recognize the Palestinian state."

In the same context, both Britain, Australia, and Canada recognized the State of Palestine last Sunday, followed by Portugal on the same day.

For its part, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected these recognitions, considering that they do not serve peace but rather "increase the instability of the region," and described the Palestinian Authority as "part of the problem, not the solution," affirming that Israel will not accept borders "it cannot defend." It also considered the recognition by Britain, Canada, and Australia as a "reward for Hamas."