French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday announced that France will formally recognize the State of Palestine, a move he said will be finalised at the United Nations General Assembly in September, amid growing international concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, France 24 reported.

In a post on social media, Macron said, "The urgent thing today is that the war in Gaza stops and the civilian population is saved." He added, "Given its historic commitment to a just and sustainable peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the state of Palestine. Peace is possible."

France 24 reported that the announcement follows Macron's growing frustration with Israel's conduct in Gaza, especially in recent months. While Macron initially expressed strong support for Israel after the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, he has since advocated for an end to the conflict and increased humanitarian aid.