France has announced its recognition of the Palestinian state, with a formal declaration to be made at the United Nations General Assembly this September. The move comes as preparations are underway for the “High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.”
The conference was initially planned to take place last June but was postponed due to an Israeli attack on Iran. The ongoing tragedy in Gaza highlights the urgency need to halt military attacks causing innocent civilian deaths. Pope Francis has repeatedly called for a peaceful solution, stating it is necessary to respect international law and protect civilians.
France’s recognition of Palestine is consistent with concerns expressed by Popes since 1948 about the condition of Holy Places and Palestinian people rights. The agreement signed in 2000 between the Holy See and PLO aimed to establish a homeland for Palestinians, while Pope Paul VI asked for recognition of their rights and aspirations in his 1975 Christmas message.
The Holy See has consistently supported the two-state solution, with Pope Francis reaffirming its importance during his 2014 visit. The 2015 Comprehensive Agreement between the Holy See and Palestine insists on this goal, emphasizing the need for Jerusalem to be a symbol of peace and security for all humanity.
As the international community weighs in on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it is crucial that they pursue solutions guaranteeing Palestinian people secure borders and dignity. France’s recognition of Palestine is a step towards finding a peaceful resolution, but more needs to be done to address the ongoing suffering of civilians in Gaza.
Source: https://www.vaticannews.va/en/world/news/2025-07/state-of-palestine-responsibility-international-community.html