Amman: France's Ambassador to Jordan, Franck Gellet, announced that France has officially recognized the State of Palestine, following President Emmanuel Macron's commitment made earlier in September 2025. The announcement was made during the High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
According to Jordan News Agency, the recognition was spurred by the tragic events unfolding in Gaza, alongside the continued actions by Israeli authorities and the acceleration of settlement policies in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. The conference saw participation from numerous heads of State and government, including His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan. Since the announcement, eight other countries have joined France in recognizing the State of Palestine.
The French envoy emphasized that this decision was consistent with France's historical positions and principles, particularly in defense of international law. During the conference, France, alongside Saudi Arabia and with Jordan's support, managed to create significant international momentum. On 12 September, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed the New York Declaration on the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution, supported by 142 States.
The declaration outlines a clear path towards establishing a sovereign and economically viable State of Palestine, coexisting peacefully with Israel and neighboring countries. The Palestinian Authority has committed to reforms and organizing elections, with regional countries agreeing to exclude Hamas from future leadership roles in Palestine.
The New York Declaration also calls for Israel's withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, unhindered humanitarian aid delivery, and the establishment of an administrative transition committee under the reformed Palestinian Authority. It highlights the joint reconstruction efforts by the Arab League and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, along with a stabilization mission that France is willing to support.
Gellet posed questions to the international community, urging them to consider the declaration's contents sincerely and engage in sensible debate to address regional security concerns. He reiterated President Macron's sentiment that pursuing peace is more challenging than war but necessary. The two-state solution is viewed as the only viable option that respects the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.
His Majesty King Abdullah II echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the choice between continuing conflict or pursuing peace through the two-state solution, marking a significant step towards achieving lasting peace.