France officially recognised Palestine at the UN, with President Macron calling it a “historic commitment to peace.” The announcement, amid Israel’s Gaza war and West Bank settlements, drew applause and renewed debate over a two-state solution.

France joins countries like Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and the UK in recognising Palestine, while Germany, Italy, and Japan have not. UN Secretary-General Guterres stressed that Palestinian statehood is a right.

Palestinian President Abbas condemned violence from both sides, called for peace, and highlighted reforms, though his leadership faces criticism. About three-quarters of UN member states now recognise Palestine, but for those under siege, the recognition is largely symbolic.

Israel’s PM Netanyahu opposes the two-state model and may annex parts of the West Bank. He is expected to respond after meeting US President Trump, both of whom oppose international recognition of Palestine.