France Formally Recognises State of Palestine

By Orgesta Tolaj

23 September 2025

On September 22, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron officially recognised the State of Palestine during a speech at the United Nations. France joins a wave of countries—including Australia, Britain, Canada, Portugal, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and others—that have moved in recent days to recognise Palestine. Macron declared: “The time for peace has come.” He called for an immediate end to war, bombings of Gaza, massacres, displacement, and the freeing of hostages held by Hamas.

Macron said the recognition would not come with a full embassy immediately, making that conditional on the release of hostages.

Antisemitism & French Domestic Concerns

While making the announcement, Macron also addressed concerns about rising antisemitism in France. He said that recognising Palestine does not mean turning a blind eye to Jewish fear or history. “Never will we cease our existential fight against antisemitism,” Macron asserted. He acknowledged the sense of anxiety among French Jews, particularly in light of recent events since October 7, 2023.

He pledged that antisemitism would continue to be a national priority, that violent antisemitic acts would be punished with the full force of the law, and that vigilance and strong response mechanisms would be reinforced.

Reactions & Implications

Israel was opposed to the move, warning that such recognition rewards Hamas. Israel’s ambassador to the UN reportedly said France’s decision is problematic.
United States also expressed concerns. Some U.S. officials view such recognition as premature without a political process or guarantees.
Public & local reactions in France were mixed but significant. Some local town halls flew the Palestinian flag despite being warned by the Interior Ministry not to. Many citizens, political figures, and intellectuals viewed this recognition as a long-awaited step aligning with principles of self-determination and justice.