France has decided to recognize the state of Palestine: what is Israel’s reaction?

French President Emmanuel Macron has announced his intention to officially recognize a Palestinian state.

He reported this in his message on the X platform.

He added that he would make a solemn statement on this matter during his speech at the UN General Assembly in September.

According to the French leader, the first priority is an immediate end to hostilities in the Gaza Strip, the release of all hostages and large-scale humanitarian support for the civilian population. Macron also called for the demilitarization of the Hamas group, ensuring security, restoring the enclave and creating a full-fledged Palestinian state that recognizes Israel.

“The French want peace in the Middle East. And it is we, the French, together with the Israelis, the Palestinians and our partners, who must prove that this is possible,” Macron stressed.

However, such an initiative has provoked a sharp reaction from the United States and Israel. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that Washington “strongly rejects” France’s intention to recognize Palestine.

“This is an irresponsible decision that only plays into the hands of Hamas propaganda and hinders a peaceful settlement. It is an insult to the victims of October 7,” he noted.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed criticism, saying that recognition of a Palestinian state is “reward for terror.”

“This is not a path to peace. This is a launching pad for the destruction of Israel. The Palestinians do not seek a state next to Israel, they seek a state instead of Israel,” the Israeli prime minister emphasized.