President Donald Trump downplayed French President Emmanuel Macron’s plan to recognize a Palestinian state at the UN General Assembly, stating that Macron’s statement does not carry significant weight. In contrast, leading Republican figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Senator Lindsay Graham, and Senator Tom Cotton, strongly criticized the decision, calling it ‘reckless’ and a ‘slap in the face’ to the victims of the October 7 Hamas attack. Israeli officials also sharply reacted to Macron’s move, warning that it could embolden Hamas and create another Iranian proxy.
Macron announced his intention to recognize a Palestinian state at a UN General Assembly session in September, citing the need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, and humanitarian aid to Gaza. He also emphasized that Hamas must be demilitarized and Gaza rebuilt. Macron framed the recognition as a step toward peace in the Middle East, claiming that it would demonstrate the possibility of peace through collaborative efforts with Israel, the Palestinians, and international partners.
Rubio and other Republicans expressed deep concern about Macron’s move, arguing that it undermines the U.S.’s position in the region and could embolden Hamas. They also questioned the practicality of the plan, asking rhetorical questions about its implementation. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move, warning that it would reward terrorism and pose a threat to Israel’s security. Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Levin echoed these sentiments, calling the decision a ‘black stain on France’s history,’ and urging Israel to assert sovereignty over certain territories.
Despite the sharp criticism from both U.S. political figures and Israeli officials, Macron’s announcement remains largely symbolic, as it does not automatically grant UN membership or full diplomatic recognition. Around 150 out of 193 UN member states already recognize Palestine as a sovereign state, indicating that the move is more of a political statement than a substantial shift in international relations. Nevertheless, it underscores the high stakes of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the complex international dynamics at play.