Trump to Address UN General Assembly Following France’s Recognition of Palestinian State
France’s recognition of a Palestinian state has added momentum to international calls for peace in the Middle East, even as tensions and violence continue in Gaza.
France Makes Historic Announcement
Speaking before the United Nations in New York, French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France now formally recognizes a Palestinian state. Macron declared that “the time for peace has come” and emphasized that “nothing justifies the ongoing war in Gaza.” His remarks underscored France’s position that a two-state solution remains the only viable framework for lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
Macron also said that France is ready to contribute to a stabilization mission in Gaza and suggested that a transitional administration involving the Palestinian Authority (PA) could oversee the dismantling of Hamas. However, he noted that France would only establish an embassy to a Palestinian state once all hostages held by Hamas are released and a ceasefire is secured.
Trump’s Highly Anticipated Speech
Amid these developments, U.S. President Donald Trump is set to address the UN General Assembly on Tuesday, alongside leaders from Jordan, Qatar, and other key regional players. His speech comes at a critical moment, as U.S. policy remains central to the direction of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
On Monday, however, the United States skipped a one-day summit co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia that focused on advancing a two-state solution. Fellow G7 members Germany and Italy were also absent.
Growing International Recognition
France’s recognition follows similar steps from the UK, Canada, Australia, and Portugal, announced on Sunday. Several smaller European states—including Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Andorra, and San Marino—are also preparing to follow suit.
This wave of recognition reflects mounting international pressure on Israel, particularly in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and continued settlement activity in the West Bank.
Israeli Response
Israeli officials strongly rejected France’s move. Ambassador Danny Dannon dismissed the UN discussions as a “charade” and insisted that the idea of a Palestinian state had been taken “off the table” after the Hamas-led attack of October 7, 2023, which killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 others taken hostage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly stated that there will be no Palestinian state to the west of the River Jordan, while President Isaac Herzog argued that recognition only “emboldens the forces of darkness.”
Humanitarian Toll and Global Response
Since the October 7 attack, Israeli military operations in Gaza have killed more than 65,000 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Israel is currently conducting a ground offensive in Gaza City, a densely populated area that had housed nearly a million people and where famine was recently confirmed.
At the UN, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the situation in Gaza as “morally, legally and politically intolerable.” He reiterated that a two-state solution remains the “only credible path” to peace.
Palestinian Leadership Speaks Out
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, who was barred from attending the UN in person after the U.S. revoked visas for him and other Palestinian officials, addressed the assembly via videolink. Abbas called for a permanent ceasefire and insisted that Hamas should have no role in governing Gaza, urging the group to surrender its weapons to the Palestinian Authority. He condemned the October 7 attack and appealed directly to Israelis: “Our future and yours depends on peace. Enough violence and war.”
Broader Global Reactions
Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud reaffirmed his country’s position that only a two-state solution can deliver peace. The European Union, through Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, announced the creation of a Palestine Donor Group to help fund reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
In contrast, Germany and Italy remain cautious. Germany has indicated that recognition should come at the end of a negotiated process, though officials acknowledged the need to begin that process now. Italy’s government, led by Giorgia Meloni, warned that recognition could be “counter-productive” at this stage.
Symbolic Displays and Public Reactions
In Paris, the Eiffel Tower was illuminated with both Palestinian and Israeli flags, signaling France’s attempt to balance solidarity with both peoples. However, pro-Palestinian demonstrations also erupted in more than 80 Italian towns and cities, highlighting the depth of public concern across Europe.
Looking Ahead
With President Trump preparing to deliver his remarks, the stakes at the UN General Assembly are high. His response to France’s recognition and the wider international movement could significantly shape the trajectory of Middle East diplomacy in the months ahead.