PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron declared that recognizing a Palestinian state is not a “taboo” for France, signaling a potential shift in the country’s diplomatic stance amidst escalating tensions in the Palestinian territories.
Macron’s remarks came during a meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah in Paris, underscoring France’s readiness to address the longstanding aspirations of Palestinians and the imperative for regional stability.
While France and the European Union have traditionally endorsed a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine within the framework of negotiated settlements, mounting frustration with the lack of progress has prompted calls for more proactive measures. Against the backdrop of Israel’s intensified offensive in Gaza, Macron emphasized the need to act decisively to avert further humanitarian crises and foster peace in the region.
“Recognizing a Palestinian state is not a taboo for France,” Macron asserted, acknowledging the enduring plight of Palestinians and the historical trauma experienced by Israelis. He underscored the responsibility of France and its partners, including Jordan, in advancing efforts towards Palestinian statehood and reiterated France’s commitment to engaging constructively within European and international forums, including the UN Security Council.
France’s Influence as Permanent Member of UN Security Council
While Macron refrained from specifying a timeline or conditions for potential recognition, France’s influential position as a permanent member of the Security Council amplifies its diplomatic leverage in shaping the discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Addressing the urgent need for immediate action, Macron urged for a ceasefire in Gaza, cautioning against the dire consequences of an Israeli offensive in Rafah, near the border with Egypt. He warned of a potential “humanitarian disaster without any precedent” should hostilities escalate further, highlighting the imperative for international intervention to avert further loss of life and suffering.
The French President’s stance aligns with recent statements from other European counterparts, including Britain’s Foreign Minister David Cameron, who signaled the possibility of official recognition of a Palestinian state following a ceasefire in Gaza. Such initiatives reflect growing international pressure on Israel to reengage in substantive negotiations and pursue a viable two-state solution.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s steadfast rejection of Palestinian statehood and the absence of meaningful negotiations since 2009 have fueled frustration among key allies, raising the stakes for diplomatic initiatives aimed at reviving the peace process.
