The long-awaited initiative by France to recognize the State of Palestine and revive the two-state solution has gained momentum as Germany and Saudi Arabia have publicly shown their support.
Paris plans to recognize Palestine by September, marking a significant step forward in the Middle East. The move highlights France’s intent to leverage its influence as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to initiate meaningful negotiations.
Recognition as a diplomatic lever, not symbolism
Collaborating with Arab partners, including Saudi Arabia, a plan is to build the conditions necessary for a viable two-state solution. This includes reforms within the Palestinian Authority, barriers to anti-Semitism, and the disarmament of Hamas. At a recent conference co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, Jean-Noël Barrot, a French minister stated that this involves firmly opposing and isolating Hamas.
Germany has also aligned itself with the France-led initiative, showing its intent to support a United Nations resolution that endorses the two-state framework. According to Devdiscourse, Germany’s support represents a potential diplomatic shift with support from major European powers, and is a also also reflection of growing international consensus around the need for peace.
Germany aligns with France on two-state proposal
Although Germany’s decision to support the resolution is not a formal recognition of Palestinian statehood yet, it demonstrates their commitment to the principle of two states living harmoniously. Germany’s decision suggests a coordinated European effort, where France takes the lead and Germany reinforces the momentum to bring about support.
Saudi Arabia’s involvement as a key regional player signifies a broader Arab endorsement and it increases the pressure on Israel to engage with the proposed solution. France hopes to gain additional support from member states, and the plan for this is expected to be presented at the United Nations.
Despite diplomatic optimism, problems still exist as critics question whether independent recognition of Palestine can be seen as a reward for Hamas following the October 7 attacks. Minister Séjourné addressed these concerns by assuring that the immediate release of all hostages is his absolute priority following the tragic death of French hostage Orión Hernández in Gaza.
“We favour diplomatic initiatives over political stances. Recognition must serve a peace process and a way out of the crisis.”
Rather than rushing into recognition, France is using a thoughtful approach that seeks to lay down conditions to ensure the move contributes to long-term stability. These include:
- A ceasefire in Gaza
- Political reforms
- A mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine.
“We have to build a common vision for the aftermath in Gaza”
Macron’s broader Middle East peace strategy
President Emmanuel Macron’s broader ambition to position France as a peace broker in the Middle East also reflects this initiative. With escalating tensions in southern Lebanon and ongoing hostilities in Gaza, the president has intensified diplomatic efforts to prevent a regional uprising. France has 900 soldiers stationed in Lebanon as part of the UN Interim Force, and has proposed measures to de-escalate the situation.
As France prepares for its formal recognition of Palestine, the international community will be closely watching the situation. The support from Germany and Saudi Arabia could be the beginning of a larger alliance advocating for a two-state solution, one that balances justice for Palestinians with security for Israelis. One that balances justice for Palestinians with security for Israelis.
The success of this initiative in breaking the deadlock is not guaranteed, but with the right help from key allies stepping forward, a shift in the diplomatic landscape can be expected. Whether this initiative will succeed in breaking the deadlock remains uncertain, but with France taking charge and key allies stepping forward, the diplomatic landscape is shifting.