France formally recognizes Palestinian state despite U.S. opposition

NEW YORK: France officially recognized a Palestinian state on Monday, defying months of pressure from the Trump administration, which had worked aggressively to dissuade international support for the move.

The announcement, made at the outset of the United Nations General Assembly, marks a significant diplomatic moment as France pushes forward with its initiative for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside Saudi co-hosts, convened a high-profile gathering that drew a wide array of world leaders and diplomats from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The move came despite sharp objections from Washington. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had attempted to stymie the initiative, issuing diplomatic cables urging U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide to avoid participation. He publicly denounced the recognition effort as a “gift to Hamas.”

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also criticized the decision, stating it “does not do anything to release the hostages, which is the primary goal right now in Gaza,” and “does nothing to end this conflict and bring this war to a close.” She added, “These decisions are just more talk and not enough action from some of our friends and allies.”

In a retaliatory move, the Trump administration barred Palestinian leaders from obtaining visas to attend the New York event. However, in a symbolic show of support, the U.N. General Assembly voted on Friday to allow Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas to address the gathering via video.

The recognition by France adds momentum to growing international support for Palestinian statehood, even as the path to a negotiated peace remains fraught.