New york: French President Emmanuel Macron announced Monday that his nation officially recognizes the state of Palestine. "I declare that today France recognizes the state of Palestine," Macron said at an international conference on Palestine in New York ahead of the start of this week's UN General Assembly.

According to Anadolu Agency, Macron emphasized that the recognition represents "the only solution that will allow for Israel to live in peace." He stated that France's recognition "is a defeat for Hamas, just like for all those who ferment antisemitism, nurture anti-Zionist obsessions, and who want the destruction of the state of Israel."

Macron expressed gratitude towards other nations that have also recently announced recognition of Palestine. These countries include Andorra, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and San Marino. He noted that this recognition "paves the way for useful negotiations, (and is) useful for Israelis and Palestinians" working toward "a peace and security plan for all."

The conference, which was co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, is a continuation of a similar gathering that took place in July. The discussions aim to address ongoing tensions and work towards a lasting resolution for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Since Oct. 7, 2023, Israel's military operations in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of over 65,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children.