French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent announcement of his intent to recognize the State of Palestine by September has intensified international pressure on Israel to end the war in Gaza and to support a two-state solution. Macron’s move also increases scrutiny on countries that have yet to take a similar step.
Although this is the third time the French president has signaled such an intention, the context of ongoing conflict in Gaza and the stalled peace process lends new weight to the announcement. France, as one of the EU’s largest powers, could drive momentum for broader recognition across Europe.
Greece Maintains Current Position
Greece has so far resisted changing its stance, despite knowing about France’s intentions since spring. The Greek government has linked the recognition of Palestine to the success of ongoing peace talks and a comprehensive political solution in the Middle East.
Macron Seeks European Consensus
Macron is reportedly seeking coordinated action from other European countries, including the UK, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Although recognition will not be announced during next week’s postponed peace conference—initially planned for June but delayed due to tensions in Gaza and the broader region—it may still occur during the United Nations General Assembly in September.
US and Israel Distance Themselves from Global Peace Efforts
The United States has officially stated it will not participate in the upcoming two-state solution conference. Meanwhile, Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, recently passed a resolution indicating its intent to take full control of the West Bank and the Jordan Valley—steps seen as undermining any future two-state agreement.
These developments expose growing rifts between Israel and the US on one side, and much of the international community on the other. The differing visions between leaders such as Donald Trump and Benjamin Netanyahu and international bodies like the UN further highlight the widening divide in approaches to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
