Macron Plans France Palestinian State Recognition Ahead UN Summit

France, under President Emmanuel Macron, has officially recognized the state of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly, aiming to isolate Hamas and promote a political process toward peace. Macron argues that denying Palestinians a political future pushes them toward Hamas, and recognition is essential to offering Palestinians a state and reducing support for the group. This diplomatic move has been described as creating a "mini diplomatic tsunami" that may encourage other countries to follow suit. However, the decision faces criticism both within France, where a majority public opinion favors conditions such as the release of hostages before recognition, and from Israel, which sees the move as destabilizing and undermining peace prospects. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and far-right ministers oppose Palestinian statehood, with Netanyahu vowing to expand settlements. The UN Secretary-General has encouraged international pressure to prevent retaliation and continue efforts toward peace despite tensions.