France will become the first G7 nation to recognise a Palestinian state when it makes a statement before the UN in September, President Emmanuel Macron has said.
In a social media post, Macron says the decision is “consistent” with France’s “historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East”, BBC reports.
After calling for a ceasefire and the “release of all hostages”, Macron says: “We must build the State of Palestine, guarantee its viability, and ensure that by accepting its demilitarisation and fully recognising Israel, it contributes to the security of all in the region.”
Palestinian officials have welcomed Macron’s decision, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calls it “a launch pad to annihilate Israel”.
The US also says it “strongly rejects” the declaration. Secretary of State Marco Rubio calls it “reckless”.
Currently, the State of Palestine is recognised by more than 140 of the 193 UN member states.