In a major shift, France joined Belgium, Andorra, Mali, Luxembourg, and Monaco in recognizing Palestine as an independent state. This move follows similar steps by Britain and Canada, signaling broader Western support amid ongoing Gaza tensions. Flags of independent Palestine now fly at Palestinian embassies in London and city hall in Paris, highlighting protests against Israeli actions.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed during a joint Saudi Arabia-hosted session at the UN General Assembly that recognizing Palestine stands as a basic right, not a reward. He warned without a two-state solution, extremism could spread across the Middle East, blocking lasting peace.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, speaking virtually at the conference, urged Hamas to disarm immediately. He declared no role for Hamas in Palestinian governance and demanded all groups hand over weapons to authorities. Abbas condemned illegal occupations while protesting Hamas actions on October 7, 2023.
Israel boycotted the event, with envoy Danny Danon calling it an effort to fuel terrorism. The United States also skipped participation.
Meanwhile, Hamas reportedly sent a letter to U.S. President Donald Trump seeking a 60-day Gaza ceasefire, according to Fox News. In exchange, the group offered to release half of held hostages. Trump plans meetings with Muslim leaders Tuesday on Gaza issues, as cries from Gaza residents reach world stages.
This wave of recognitions comes as Spain, Ireland, Norway, and Sweden prepare similar announcements, per French President statements. Gaza suffering drives these decisions, pushing global calls for resolution.
