Macron’s recognition of Palestine a wake-up call

FRANCE’s declaration that it will recognise the state of Palestine in September marks a watershed moment in the West’s engagement with the Israel-Palestine conflict. As the first G7 country to formally do so, Paris has broken ranks with its transatlantic allies, risking ire from the US and Israel to affirm a stance that has long simmered beneath Europe’s diplomatic surface. President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement is more than symbolic. It is a rebuke of the status quo — one in which global outrage over Gaza suffering has been met with diplomatic inertia. By invoking France’s “historical commitment to peace” and the two-state solution, Macron is laying the groundwork for Europe to move from cautious condemnation to tangible positioning.

Unsurprisingly, the US and Israel have called the move “reckless” and “shameful”. The argument that Palestine must earn its statehood by negotiation has worn thin after decades of stalled talks, expanding settlements and relentless violence. France’s recognition is a nudge to revive a long-dormant peace process. Its decision may not change facts on the ground — borders, occupation or suffering, including starvation in Gaza as aid is withheld. But it has sent a clear message: global patience with Israel’s impunity is wearing thin. The real test is whether other major powers will follow suit. If they do, it could redefine the contours of international diplomacy in West Asia.

Meanwhile, India’s response has been cautiously consistent: reiterating support for a ceasefire, humanitarian access and the two-state solution. However, the shifting sands of alignments, particularly under the Modi government’s growing closeness with Israel, put pressure on New Delhi to recalibrate without abandoning its historic support for Palestinian statehood. The domestic political calculus will also play a role in how vocally India responds.

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