French President Emmanuel Macron hinted at the possibility of recognizing the Palestinian state in the coming months during an interview with France 5 channel following his two-day visit to Egypt. Macron emphasized the need to take steps towards the recognition of the Palestinian state, indicating a possible move in June. He stated, “We will move towards recognition of the Palestinian state in the next few months. I am not doing this to please anyone. I am doing it because at some point, it will be the right thing to do.” Macron also expressed his desire to be part of a collective dynamic that would lead to the recognition of Israel by those supporting Palestine, noting that most countries have not done so.

Macron also mentioned his goal of hosting a conference in June, along with Saudi Arabia and other countries, to conclude mutual recognition efforts. However, these remarks were met with criticism from Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar who expressed his disapproval on social media. Saar stated, “Such actions will not bring peace, security, and stability closer to our region; rather, they will push them further away. Unilaterally recognizing the imaginary Palestinian state will only support terrorism and reward Hamas.” While the Palestinian state is recognized as a sovereign state by approximately 150 countries, notable absentees include the US, UK, France, Germany, and Japan. On the other hand, countries that do not recognize Israel include Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Yemen.