In a historic move, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced that France will formally recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September. The declaration positions France as the most influential Western country to back Palestinian statehood—sparking celebration in Ramallah and outrage in Tel Aviv.
Macron framed the decision as a moral obligation and a diplomatic necessity, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and a surge of humanitarian aid. But his statement also included conditions: demilitarisation of a future Palestinian state and full recognition of Israel.
The Palestinian Authority welcomed the announcement, describing it as a step towards justice and self-determination. Hamas issued cautious support, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fiercely condemned the move as a “reward for terror.” Israeli ministers have threatened retaliatory measures.
In this edition of NewsHour, we ask what France’s bold new stance means for the future of the Middle East, whether it signals a broader shift in European policy—and what comes next.
Watch our full segment, including reactions from Paris, and a special interview with a pro-Palestinian guest.
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