Paris: European leaders on Friday welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement that France will formally recognize Palestine as a state, calling it a significant step toward achieving peace in the Middle East.
According to Anadolu Agency, Macron's decision, which he plans to formalize at the UN General Assembly in September, has garnered widespread support from various European countries. Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris expressed his approval on X, highlighting the importance of this move in realizing the two-state solution, which he believes is the only sustainable path to peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez also voiced his support, emphasizing the collective responsibility of European nations to uphold the two-state solution, a stance that counters what he views as destructive efforts by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Scottish First Minister John Swinney called on the UK government to follow France's example, stressing the necessity of recognizing Palestine for peace and initiating a ceasefire and humanitarian aid.
Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon commended Macron's decision as a step toward peace and reaffirmed Slovenia's commitment to international law. The Czech Republic echoed support for a two-state solution, although its Foreign Ministry insisted that Palestinian statehood should result from direct negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians. Czech President Petr Pavel reiterated this position during a visit to Japan.
While many European countries have shown support, others like Germany and Italy have adopted a more cautious approach. Germany's government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius stated that recognition should be one of the final steps in the peace process, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and addressing urgent issues like the release of Israeli hostages and the disarmament of Hamas. Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized that recognition must be reciprocal, aligning with Italy's stance on the two-state solution.
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot announced plans to propose a government decision before the UN General Assembly, considering factors that could foster lasting peace. Prevot highlighted the urgent humanitarian crisis in Gaza, calling for immediate aid and criticizing the ongoing Israeli blockade that hampers humanitarian access. He stressed the importance of ensuring that Belgian aid reaches Gaza to alleviate the dire situation faced by its residents.