Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticized France’s decision to recognize Palestinian statehood, arguing that it “rewards terror” and poses an existential threat to Israel.
We strongly condemn President Macron’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state next to Tel Aviv in the wake of the October 7 massacre. Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became.
A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a…
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) July 24, 2025
Netanyahu’s Strong Remarks
On Friday, Netanyahu stated, “Let’s be clear: the Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel.” His comments followed an announcement from French President Emmanuel Macron, who confirmed that France would formally recognize Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September.
Netanyahu further warned that this recognition could enable another Iranian proxy state, describing it as “a launch pad to annihilate Israel.”
France’s Position and Global Context
With France’s announcement, Palestinian statehood is now recognized by 142 countries. In a statement on X, Macron said, “We must finally build the State of Palestine, ensure its viability, and enable it, by accepting its demilitarization and fully recognizing Israel, to contribute to the security of all in the Middle East.”
Consistent with its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, 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.… pic.twitter.com/VTSVGVH41I
— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) July 24, 2025
Macron emphasized that France’s decision aligns with its commitment to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East and called for an end to the ongoing war in Gaza, advocating for the rescue of civilians impacted by the conflict.
Implications and Reactions
While many nations support Palestinian statehood, France stands out as the largest Western power to take this step, potentially influencing other countries to follow suit and applying diplomatic pressure on Israel.
In contrast to Netanyahu’s condemnation, the Palestinian Authority welcomed France’s decision. Hussein Al Sheikh, the PLO’s vice president under President Mahmoud Abbas, stated, “This position reflects France’s commitment to international law and its support for the Palestinian people’s rights to self-determination,” as reported by the AP.
