French president Emmanuel Macron on July 24, 2025 announced that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine in September 2025.
Macron said the move was “consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East,” adding: ” I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine. I will make this solemn announcement before the United Nations General Assembly this coming September.”
In a post on his X handle, he also spoke about the urgent priority of ending the war in Gaza and to bring relief to the civilian population.
Below is a letter he wrote to President of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abass.
Macron speaks:
Peace is possible. We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and massive humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. We must also ensure the demilitarization of Hamas, secure and rebuild Gaza.
And finally, we must build the State of Palestine, guarantee its viability, and ensure that by accepting its demilitarization and fully recognizing Israel, it contributes to the security of all in the region.
There is no alternative.
The French people want peace in the Middle East. It is our responsibility — as French citizens, alongside Israelis, Palestinians, and our European and international partners — to prove that peace is possible. In light of the commitments made to me by the President of the Palestinian Authority, I have written to him to express my determination to move forward. Trust, clarity, and resolve. We will achieve peace.