Macron Clarifies Gaza Stance, Reaffirms Support for Palestinian State Without Hamas
French President calls for permanent ceasefire, hostages’ release, and a two-state solution ahead of potential historic recognition of Palestine in June.
Watan-In a post on the platform “X,” President Emmanuel Macron expressed on Friday his desire to clarify France’s position on the situation in Gaza, amid growing controversy over his recent statements regarding the recognition of a Palestinian state.
The French president wrote:“I’m reading all sorts of things about our intentions regarding Gaza… This is France’s position, and it is clear: Yes to peace. Yes to Israel’s security. Yes to a Palestinian state without Hamas.”
He continued:“This requires the release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire, the immediate resumption of humanitarian aid, and a push for a political solution based on two states.”
Macron Signals Possible Palestinian Recognition, Urges Political Solution
Macron’s clarification came two days after he opened the door to potential French recognition of a Palestinian state, expected to be made official in June during a conference in New York co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia.
If such recognition goes ahead, France would become the first G7 country to take this step—potentially paving the way for a political solution in the Middle East and marking a historic shift. The statements sparked wide-ranging political reactions.
France’s left-wing parties welcomed what the leader of the “France Unbowed” parliamentary bloc, Mathilde Panot, described as “a hard-fought step.” In contrast, the far-right National Rally’s deputy chairman, Sébastien Chenu, said that recognizing a Palestinian state is “premature.”
On “X,” Macron reaffirmed his support for “the Palestinians’ legitimate right to statehood and peace, as well as the Israelis’ right to live in peace and security—both recognized by their neighbors.” He stressed that “the only viable path is a political solution.”
Macron Urges Unity Ahead of Two-State Conference, Backed by Growing Global Recognition of Palestine
Calls for a ceasefire and a “two-state solution” have increased since the war in Gaza began following the October 7, 2023, attack by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas on Israeli settlements.
To date, 147 out of 193 United Nations member states recognize the State of Palestine. In May 2024, Spain, Ireland, and Norway formally announced their recognition, bringing the number of EU countries that recognize Palestine to ten.
Macron concluded his post by saying:“The two-state conference in June must be a turning point. I am doing everything I can with our partners to achieve this goal for peace, which is more urgent than ever.”
He added:“To achieve the two-state solution, I will not accept shortcuts or provocations. Let’s not allow the spread of false information or manipulation. Above all, let’s remain united.”
