
A Reading of the French Position: France’s Support for Peace and the Two-State Solution

French President Emmanuel Macron has shown significant and positive stances regarding the Palestinian issue, calling for an end to the war and the opening of humanitarian corridors. He has emphasized the importance of seeking a political solution based on the two-state principle. These positions reflect France’s historic commitment to supporting Palestinian rights and strengthening international efforts to achieve peace.
This perspective comes amid political developments and President Macron’s reaffirmation of France’s stance:
- Yes to peace.
- Yes to a Palestinian state.
As Palestinians, we recognize that this should be met with full respect and Palestinian support. President Macron has called for the release of prisoners, a ceasefire, the resumption of humanitarian aid, and a political solution. He also emphasized the significance of the upcoming two-state conference in June as a crucial opportunity to bring about a transformative change in the Palestinian issue.
Furthermore, France’s call for an end to the war demonstrates an awareness of the need to prevent the conflict from escalating into a broader regional confrontation, which could threaten the stability of the Middle East. Such an escalation would not only prolong tensions but could also foster new cycles of enduring hatred among the region’s peoples, making peace even more challenging to achieve.
Positions like those expressed by France represent a beacon of hope, focusing on political and humanitarian solutions that restore dialogue to the forefront of the conflict. Ending the war is the first step toward stopping destruction and reinforcing international efforts to achieve comprehensive peace that benefits all people in the region.
We are confident in the sincerity of President Macron’s efforts, which we support and hope will succeed. France has hosted Palestinian leaders on various occasions, demonstrating its commitment to supporting the Palestinian cause through direct engagement with Palestinian representatives.
Most recently, France hosted a political conference in one of its historic buildings, bringing together former Palestinian Foreign Minister Nasser Al-Qudwa and former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert. This clear initiative in support of peace calls for ending the war, recognizing a Palestinian state, and fostering coexistence through launching a peace process based on the two-state solution and the 1967 borders.
As Palestinian journalists and observers, we see President Macron’s recent visit as a strong endorsement of Egypt’s position regarding Gaza and the Palestinian cause. It also reflects France’s rejection of Israeli plans for the forced displacement of Palestinians. This support reaffirms France’s commitment to the two-state solution as a fundamental path to peace, underscoring its role as a strong advocate of Palestinian rights.
*The Palestinian-French Connection *
The relationship between the Palestinian and French people carries deep historical and humanitarian dimensions, shaped by decades of political, cultural, and solidarity-based support.
*Political and Diplomatic Support
France has long been among the leading European nations supporting the two-state solution and the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. Since the time of General Charles de Gaulle, France has made its stance clear in rejecting the occupation and endorsing the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Over the years, Paris has played a pivotal diplomatic role in advancing international peace efforts.
*Humanitarian and Popular Solidarity *
During the genocide facing the Palestinian people, the streets, universities, and squares of France have been filled with protests, cultural initiatives, and political mobilization. There has also been material support for Palestine and the Palestine Liberation Organization.
Many French citizens have demonstrated strong solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Numerous organizations and associations in France continue to support Palestinians through relief programs, development projects, and cultural exchanges aimed at fostering understanding and strengthening connections between both peoples.
*Historic Positions *
From President Jacques Chirac’s visit to Jerusalem in 1996, where he openly rejected Israeli occupation practices, to President Macron’s current stance in favor of recognizing a Palestinian state, France has consistently been a strong partner in defending Palestinian rights.
*Towards a Shared Future *
This connection between the two peoples serves as a foundation for enhancing relations through increased cultural cooperation, political support, and initiatives that encourage engagement between Palestinian and French youth. The relationship is not confined to politics alone—it extends to shared values of freedom and justice upheld by both nations.
Amid current global and regional challenges, France’s support for the two-state solution remains a crucial step toward achieving peace and stability in the region, instilling hope for a better future for the Palestinian people.