France Plans to Recognize the State of Palestine

July 28th, 2025
Harry Xu

On Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron posted on the social platform X, stating that France will recognize the state of Palestine. He plans to formally do so at the United Nations General Assembly, which will happen in September.

This surprise announcement will make France the first G7 nation to recognize Palestine, with the other countries being the U.S, the UK, Canada, Germany, Italy and Japan. While smaller countries, such as Spain, Ireland and Norway, have recognized Palestinian statehood, France’s recognition is very bold.

Macron stated that it is very urgent “to end the war in Gaza and to bring relief to the civilian population.” While other countries have turned to military action, France’s diplomatic strategy brings a different approach to the table. With Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to stop the conflict, Macron places pressure to bring peace.

France had a chance to formally recognize Palestine at a summit co-hosted with Saudi Arabia in June, but the conflict between Israel and Iran stopped that potential plan. While recognizing Palestine would be controversial for other countries, France’s announcement continues a long friendship with the state.

Many leaders have reacted to Macron’s statement. Netanyahu said in a statement that “we strongly condemn Mr. Macron’s decision to recognize a Palestinian state next to Tel Aviv in the wake of the Oct. 7 massacre.” U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, posting on X that the United States “strongly rejects” Macron’s plan. However, Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al-Sheikh welcomed the decision, stating that the post “reflects France’s commitment to international law.”

While international recognition won’t stop the current crisis in Gaza, Macron’s symbolic decision may pave the way for other leaders to do the same. David Rigoulet-Roze, who works at the French Institute of Strategic Analysis, states that “Macron’s declaration could create a precedent…which could have the effect of leading others.” Eyes now turn to the UK and Germany, also part of the G7. With the power of many other countries, the current situation in Gaza could shift.

In the end, Macron’s bold move may change the international landscape, paving the way for other countries to reconsider their positions on Palestinian statehood. As the war in Gaza continues, these leaders’ actions may be crucial for millions around the world.

Extemp Analysis by: Jana Schodzinski

Question: What will be the long-term effects of France’s recognition of a Palestinian state?

AGD: Though Macron-related AGDs and on-tops are a goldmine, a narrative AGD may work best in detailing the suffering of the Palestinian people, as well as why French support and recognition is necessary.

Background: The historical relationship between France and Palestine is necessary background knowledge for you and your judges to have. Additionally, it is important to be aware of Macron’s previous opportunities to recognize Palestine as an independent nation. France’s large Jewish population may also be important to note.

Answer: Obviously, this question gives you a lot of freedom in your response. This will vary based on the speaker’s background knowledge, personal opinions, and ideal substructure. My answer would read along the lines of, “The long-term effects of France’s recognition of a Palestinian state will benefit Palestine as a whole by encouraging further European support.”

3 Points: Three potential points are:

1- Reviving support for a two-state solution

2- Opposing Israeli violence on the Gaza strip

3- Boosting European credibility in the global South

Analysis + Concluding Thoughts: Status Quo/Change/Impact substructure will work best for this question, but feel free to branch out. When answering this question- or any question regarding Macron’s recognition of a Palestinian state- remember that this action is largely symbolic. Stay informed, and happy extemping!