Macron Sparks Outrage with Palestinian State Remark

French President Emmanuel Macron watches the gold medal game

French President Emmanuel Macron has drawn backlash after formally recognizing a Palestinian state while speaking at the UN General Assembly. His decision is reportedly tied to demands for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. He emphasized the importance of Hamas’s demilitarization and Gaza’s reconstruction, noting that France desires to see an end to the ongoing violence.

Key figures greet each other at closing ceremony

Macron said, “The French people want peace in the Middle East. It is up to us, the French, together with the Israelis, the Palestinians, and our European and international partners, to demonstrate that it is possible.”

Sec. Marco Rubio testifies before Senate Committee

Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the recognition as “reckless” and a “slap in the face” to victims of the October 7 Hamas attack. President Donald Trump responded mildly, saying Macron’s statement holds little significance.

President Trump speaks on the environment in Florida

Trump said, “What he says doesn't matter,” adding, “He's a very good guy. I like him, but that statement doesn't carry weight.”

Sen. Marco Rubio arrives for inauguration

Rubio stated, “This reckless decision only serves Hamas propaganda and sets back peace. It is a slap in the face to the victims of October 7th.”

Police officers intervene during campus protest

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the recognition, claiming it rewards terrorism. He argued that creating a Palestinian state under current conditions would escalate aggression toward Israel. Netanyahu said, “We strongly condemn Macron's decision to recognize a Palestinian state next to Tel Aviv in the wake of the October 7 massacre. Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became.”

Student remembers Israeli hostages during remembrance

Netanyahu added, “A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel — not to live in peace beside it. Let's be clear: the Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel.”

Huda Abukweik mourns family loss due to violence

The announcement has received mixed reactions in the U.S., with several Republican lawmakers echoing Sen. Rubio’s concerns and warning it could undermine peace efforts.

Palestinians receive food aid during humanitarian crisis

Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon said, “Neither international conferences disconnected from reality nor unilateral statements at the U.N. will lead to peace.” He added, “Macron's decision to recognize a Palestinian state after the massacre of October 7 and precisely at a time when Hamas is still holding hostages is a disgraceful reward for terrorism.”

Grace Hall covers U.S. politics & news for content partner Modern Newsstand LLC.