The momentum for Palestinian state recognition grew as six nations, including France, announced formal recognition ahead of the UN General Assembly. France, Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, and Monaco confirmed the decision during a high-level summit in New York. The move came as Gaza suffers fierce Israeli attacks that have left tens of thousands dead.
French President Emmanuel Macron declared Palestine a state during the summit co-hosted with Saudi Arabia. He stressed that a two-state solution is the only path to peace. Macron also outlined plans for a renewed Palestinian Authority, supported by an International Stabilisation Force to govern Gaza after the war.
Leaders from the UK, Portugal, Australia, and Canada also backed the call. Spain, Ireland, and Norway had already recognized Palestine last year. Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez condemned Israel’s Gaza offensive, calling it genocide, and urged urgent global action to protect Palestinian lives.
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the recognition through a video address. He urged more nations to follow and pressed for Palestine’s full UN membership. However, the United States continues to block such moves at the Security Council, leaving Palestine outside full UN recognition despite broad global support.
With over 80 percent of UN member states now backing Palestinian state recognition, pressure is rising on Israel and its allies. As Gaza’s devastation grows, leaders worldwide argue that recognition is no longer symbolic but essential for peace.