Paris: Palestine welcomed France's recognition Monday of a Palestinian state, hailing it as 'a historic and courageous decision that aligns with international law and UN resolutions.'

According to Anadolu Agency, France's recognition supports "efforts made to achieve peace and implement the two-state solution," said a Palestinian Foreign Ministry statement. The ministry praised France and President Emmanuel Macron for encouraging other nations to recognize Palestine and for mobilizing international support to ensure the success of the two-state solution conferences. This initiative was noted to be in full partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry extended its gratitude to Paris, emphasizing their intent to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance joint coordination across various fields. The ministry also called on other nations to follow France's example, stating that such recognition would enable the Palestinian people to exercise their right to self-determination in accordance with international law and the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice.

In New York, President Macron announced France's recognition of the Palestinian state at an international conference on Palestine. He declared France's intention to establish an embassy in Palestine once hostages in Gaza are freed and a ceasefire is achieved. Macron also stated France's readiness to participate in an international stabilization mission in the territory. The conference, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, is a continuation of efforts from a similar gathering held in July.

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