Israel Insists on France Altering Policy Before Hosting Macron

In a significant development, Israel has declined a potential visit by French President Emmanuel Macron due to France's planned recognition of a Palestinian state. This decision was communicated by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to his French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot in a recent phone call.

Saar accused France of taking "a series of anti-Israeli steps and positions" recently, particularly in relation to the planned recognition of a Palestinian state. He asserted that this move undermines stability in the Middle East and harms Israel's national and security interests.

The controversy began when Macron controversially announced his visit to Israel on September 11, 2023. However, no official plans for a potential Macron visit to Israel were known at the time of the report.

Saar further stated that he saw "no room" for a Macron visit as long as France persists with its initiative to recognise a Palestinian state. He also called on France to reconsider its recognition of a Palestinian state.

France has indeed planned to recognise a Palestinian state, a move that has been supported by several countries, including France, Canada, and Australia. Macron announced this plan in July, stating that France would recognise a Palestinian state in September.

The Israeli government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply condemned Macron's announcement, joining the chorus of criticism against the move. The exact implications of this decision on the diplomatic front remain to be seen.

As the situation unfolds, both Israel and France continue to navigate the complexities of the Middle East peace process, with the recognition of a Palestinian state serving as a contentious issue. The rejection of Macron's visit by Israel highlights the sensitivity of this matter and the potential consequences of such actions.