Israeli leaders expressed anger after French President Emmanuel Macron announced a major decision. France will recognise the State of Palestine during a UN General Assembly meeting in September.
Macron said, “In line with our historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognise the State of Palestine.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly condemned Macron’s pledge. He linked it to the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas.
Netanyahu said, “I strongly condemn President Macron’s decision to recognise a Palestinian state next to Tel Aviv in the wake of the October 7 massacre.”
He added, “Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became.”
Netanyahu also warned about the danger of the decision. “A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel, not to live in peace beside it.”
He further said, “Let’s be clear: the Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel.”
Israeli Justice Minister Yariv Levin criticised Macron’s move as “a disgrace in French history.” He demanded strong action in response.
Levin said, “Now is the time to apply sovereignty to Judea and Samaria,” according to Yedioth Ahronoth.
Defence Minister Israel Katz also reacted sharply.
He said, “Instead of standing by Israel at this critical moment, the French president chooses to weaken us. We will never allow the creation of a Palestinian entity that threatens our existence.”
The Yesha Council, representing Israeli settlement councils in the West Bank, also urged action. It asked the Israeli government to extend sovereignty over the territory immediately. Yedioth Ahronoth reported this call.
Currently, 149 out of 193 UN member states officially recognise the State of Palestine. Macron’s decision marks a major shift in France’s policy. It also adds pressure on Israel amid ongoing international debates about the conflict.
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