France reportedly pushes for broader recognition of Palestinian statehood
France is encouraging several European nations, including the UK, Belgium, and the Netherlands, to officially recognize Palestinian statehood during a United Nations conference next month, according to a French diplomat who spoke to Politico on condition of anonymity.
French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly hopes the move could help revive stalled peace talks between 'Israel' and the Palestinians, particularly as the war in Gaza drags on.
'The two-state solution is more necessary than ever but it has been more undermined than ever due to the war, the displacement, and the violence of extremist settlers,' the diplomat said.
The diplomat added that France envisions the recognition being part of a broader diplomatic initiative, possibly alongside Arab states recognizing Israeli Occupation. However, another European diplomat told Politico that many Arab countries currently seek 'sanctions, not statehood.'
So far, 147 of 193 UN member states recognize Palestine. Last year, Spain, Ireland, and Norway joined that list—moves condemned by 'Israel', which argues such recognition rewards the actions of Palestinian armed groups.
Meanwhile, humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate. On March 2, Israeli Occupation sealed off the Strip's borders, halting the entry of aid, food, hygiene supplies, and fuel. By April 1, all 25 bakeries supported by the World Food Programme had shut down due to lack of wheat flour and fuel.
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