Macron Backs Palestinian State, Urges Restraint in Mideast

French President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated his determination to recognize a Palestinian state, despite criticism from Israel and opposition from the United States, which led to the postponement of a UN conference on the matter. The delay, triggered by heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, has prompted France to coordinate with Saudi Arabia to reschedule the conference. Macron continues to condemn Iran’s nuclear program and attributes significant regional instability to Tehran, warning that Iran is nearing a critical nuclear threshold. France reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense, positions its forces to support regional partners, but insists support does not extend to offensive actions against Iran and urges restraint to avoid escalation. Romania has expressed a similar position, supporting Israel’s self-defense rights while advocating for renewed diplomatic efforts to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue. Macron also maintains that France’s support for Israel is not unconditional, reserving the right to oppose Israeli policies seen as counterproductive to security.