France has officially recognised a Palestinian state, joining a growing list of countries taking similar steps. Speaking at the UN in New York, President Emmanuel Macron said, “The time for peace has come” and condemned the ongoing war in Gaza.
Macron called for a ceasefire, the release of hostages held by Hamas, and a transitional administration in Gaza under the Palestinian Authority. He said France would open a Palestinian embassy only after hostages are freed and a ceasefire is in place.
US President Donald Trump, along with leaders from Jordan and Qatar, is set to address the UN General Assembly. Meanwhile, the US, Germany, and Italy did not attend a one-day summit hosted by France and Saudi Arabia on a two-state solution.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, barred from attending in person, addressed the UN via video link. He called for a permanent ceasefire, Hamas to surrender its weapons, and a unified Palestinian state under the PA.
International pressure on Israel is rising amid the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and West Bank settlements. Saudi Arabia, the EU, and the UN urged a two-state solution. Macron and other leaders stressed that lasting peace requires cooperation, dialogue, and ending violence.
