World leaders and diplomats from various countries applauded President Emmanuel Macron’s speech at a high-level meeting where he announced France’s decision to acknowledge Palestinian statehood. Speaking at the UN General Assembly in New York, Macron emphasized the need to address urgent issues, including the release of hostages, cessation of conflicts, and promotion of peace.
Emphasizing the importance of a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine to coexist peacefully, Macron declared France’s recognition of the state of Palestine. He also expressed intentions to establish a French embassy in Palestine once all Israeli hostages held by Hamas are freed. Macron underscored that France and its European partners would align their support for Israel with efforts towards ending hostilities and engaging in peace negotiations.
Earlier, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from annexing more land in the West Bank. The UK, along with Canada and Australia, affirmed support for Palestinian statehood, joining over 140 nations worldwide. Cooper stressed that recognizing Palestine aims to uphold security and preserve the possibility of a two-state solution.
In response, Netanyahu rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, warning against rewarding terrorism. Concerns arose that Israel might accelerate West Bank settlements, a move strongly discouraged by Cooper and the UK government. As tensions escalate, international attention remains focused on the unfolding diplomatic developments surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.