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Palestinians divided over France’s recognition of their state

10:50

By: Dakir Madiha

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Palestinians have expressed mixed reactions following French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement of France’s intention to officially recognize a Palestinian state. While some view the move as a positive step forward, others remain skeptical, pointing to the ongoing suffering in Gaza and questioning the practical implications of the decision.

Hope for recognition and global solidarity

In Ramallah, Nabil Abdel Razek, a local resident, welcomed the announcement with cautious optimism. “We hope it will be implemented, and we hope that most or all countries around the world will follow France’s lead in recognizing the Palestinian people’s right to an independent state,” he said.

The Palestinian Authority (PA), based in Ramallah, was established under the 1993 Oslo Accords as a precursor to statehood. However, decades later, the vision of an independent Palestinian state remains unfulfilled.

In the city’s central square, newspapers prominently displayed headlines about Macron’s statement. Ahmed Ghoneim, a political activist, expressed hope that France’s move could influence other European nations. “These decisions not only affirm the rights of the Palestinian people but also contribute to changing the violent reality in the region and lead to greater stability,” he said before heading to a pro-Gaza demonstration.

Gaza remains a central concern

Despite France’s gesture, many Palestinians remain focused on the immediate crisis in Gaza. Political commentator Nour Odeh questioned the practicality of Macron's announcement, writing on X, “The question for Palestinians is what will France do NOW about Israel starving them in Gaza.”

Ines Abdel Razek, co-director of the Palestine Institute for Public Diplomacy (PIPD), criticized the move as merely symbolic. In an interview with AFP, she argued that France should take concrete steps such as imposing a trade embargo on Israel and cutting diplomatic ties. She cited Colombia’s recent decision to block arms shipments to Israel as an example of meaningful action.

“What France should have recognized is the genocide and taken measures to end it and end the occupation,” she said.

Symbolism and cautious optimism

While some dismissed the announcement as largely symbolic, others saw it as a potential catalyst for progress. Samer Sinijlawi, a political activist, pointed to Macron’s call for elections in Palestinian territories, saying, “This brings us hope.”

As of now, at least 142 of the 193 UN member states recognize Palestine as a state. Macron’s announcement could add weight to international efforts, but many Palestinians are waiting to see if France will follow its recognition with tangible support for their struggle.