Emmanuel Macron has called for recognition of Palestinian statehood during an address to the UK Parliament, declaring it the "only path to peace". The French president urged immediate action on a ceasefire in Gaza and emphasised the need for a two-state solution to bring security to the region.
Speaking to MPs, Macron said a ceasefire was a matter of "absolute urgency" and stressed that Europeans must avoid double standards. He told Parliament: "Calling today for a ceasefire in Gaza without any condition, is just telling to the rest of the world that for us as Europeans, there is no double standard, and as we are attached to human lives, as we are attached to territorial integrity, we want the ceasefire, no discussion."
French president pushes two-state solution
The French leader argued that working together to recognise Palestinian statehood would create crucial political momentum. "I believe in the future of the two-state solution as a basis for regional security architecture which will enable Israel to live in peace and security alongside its neighbours," Macron said.
His comments came as Foreign Secretary David Lammy refused to set a timeframe for UK recognition of Palestinian statehood. Speaking to the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, Lammy described the situation as "moving" and "live" with delicate ceasefire negotiations under way.
Lammy cites West Bank concerns
Lammy said he was in discussions with French and Saudi colleagues about recognition but wanted to see concrete changes on the ground first. The Foreign Secretary expressed concern that "despite the recognition movement, actually what we've seen is further annexation on the West Bank" which "has not led to get us getting closer to a process, it's led to further annexation".
The Foreign Secretary indicated he would prefer recognition to be part of a broader peace process. He suggested French colleagues were also waiting to see if a ceasefire materialises "in the next few days" to kickstart negotiations.
UK maintains commitment to recognition
Despite refusing to set a timeline, Lammy insisted the UK Government remained "completely committed" to recognising Palestinian statehood. He said he was hopeful that ongoing ceasefire negotiations would succeed, though he declined to provide specific details about the talks.
The exchanges highlighted the diplomatic balancing act facing European leaders as they navigate the complex Middle East situation whilst maintaining relationships with both Israeli and Palestinian representatives.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
