NEW DELHI: French President Emmanuel Macron has stated that recognizing a Palestinian state is not a ‘taboo’ for France, as frustration grows internationally with Israel‘s actions in the Palestinian territories.
France and the EU have long supported a two-state solution in the Middle East, but only as part of a negotiated settlement. However, with talks at a standstill and Israel’s offensive in Gaza intensifying, some European countries are expressing support for recognizing a Palestinian state sooner.
During a meeting in Paris with Jordan’s King Abdullah, Macron said “Recognizing a Palestinian state is not a forbidden topic for France. We owe it to Palestinians, whose aspirations have been neglected for far too long. We owe it to Israelis, who endured the worst anti-Semitic massacre of our time. We owe it to a region that is striving to overcome those who incite chaos and seek revenge.”
Macron did not provide specific details on when or under what circumstances France could recognize a Palestinian state, and it is unlikely that France would make such a decision unilaterally.
Macron affirmed that France is working with its partners in the region, particularly Jordan, to address this issue. He also expressed readiness to contribute to the efforts in Europe and the Security Council.
Macron further called for a ceasefire in Gaza and warned of the potential humanitarian disaster if Israel were to launch an offensive in Rafah on the border with Egypt.
British Foreign Minister David Cameron previously mentioned that his country could officially recognize a Palestinian state following a ceasefire in Gaza.
(with input from agency)