ALBAWABA- French Prime Minister François Bayrou confirmed Tuesday that France, along with the United Kingdom and Canada, is preparing to jointly recognize the State of Palestine, a move he said marks a decisive and irreversible shift in international diplomacy.
Speaking before the National Assembly, and reported by Al Arabiya, Bayrou declared, “For the first time, three major nations—France, Britain, and Canada- have decided to stand together, object to the ongoing events in Gaza, and recognize the State of Palestine.” He emphasized that “this process has begun, and it will not stop.”
Bayrou’s remarks came in response to a question from Mathilde Panot, leader of the France Unbowed parliamentary group, who pressed him on whether France would proceed with recognition “now that so few Palestinians remain,” about the widespread devastation in Gaza.
The trilateral initiative follows increasing frustration among Western leaders over Israel’s military campaign in the Gaza Strip. On Monday, leaders from France, the UK, and Canada warned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government of potential “concrete actions” should the offensive continue and humanitarian access remain blocked.
Bayrou reiterated France’s commitment to a two-state solution, asserting that recent Israeli actions in Gaza were “humanely unacceptable.” While acknowledging that the October 7 Hamas-led attack was a spark for the current conflict, he underscored the disproportionate impact on civilians in Gaza. “The humanitarian situation that has developed is intolerable,” he said.
In a parallel statement earlier Tuesday, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed that Paris is moving forward with plans to recognize Palestinian statehood. Speaking to France Inter radio, Barrot described the decision as being “in the best interest of both Palestinians and Israelis,” and part of a broader effort to promote a lasting political solution.
“We cannot allow Gaza’s children to inherit a legacy of hatred and endless violence,” Barrot said. “This is why France is committed to recognizing the State of Palestine.”
Barrot added that the French government is actively working to help achieve a viable political resolution, one that not only restores Palestinian rights but also ensures Israeli security.
