French President Emmanuel Macron announced Thursday that France will recognize an independent Palestinian state in September at the United Nations General Assembly. This decision makes France the largest Western power and the first member of the Group of Seven to recognize Palestinian statehood. The move comes as reports of starvation continue to emerge from Gaza during Israel’s ongoing military operation.
The announcement has drawn strong reactions from both sides. According to The Washington Post, Palestinian officials praised the decision, while Israel and the United States condemned it. Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounced Macron’s decision, showing the Trump administration’s broad support for Israel.
