Recognition of a Palestinian State: Tense Exchange Between Emmanuel Macron and Benjamin Netanyahu

Emmanuel Macron recently opened the door to a possible recognition of the Palestinian state by France, mentioning a potential decision “in June” during a conference he will co-chair with Saudi Arabia at the United Nations in New York. This move, part of a broader dynamic of mutual recognition between Israel and Arab countries, aims to support the two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

A Harsh Response from Netanyahu

This position provoked a strong reaction from the Israeli Prime Minister. In a message posted on social network X on Sunday, April 13, Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized the French initiative:

“President Macron is making a grave mistake by continuing to promote the idea of a Palestinian state in the heart of our land — a state whose sole aspiration is the destruction of Israel.”

He continued:

“We will not jeopardize our existence for illusions disconnected from reality. We will not accept moral lectures from those who oppose the independence of territories like Corsica, New Caledonia, or French Guiana — regions whose independence would in no way threaten the existence of France.”

Macron Defends His Position

In response to the backlash, Emmanuel Macron reiterated France’s stance in a post on X last Friday, affirming “the legitimate right of Palestinians to a state and to peace, just as Israelis have the right to live in peace and security, with both parties recognized by their neighbors.”
The French president also denounced “shortcuts” and “false information” surrounding his statements.

Netanyahu’s Son Sparks Controversy, Father Steps In

The exchange also took a personal turn. Benjamin Netanyahu’s son, Yair, reacted angrily on X, directing a blunt message to the French president: “Go to hell!”
His father distanced himself from the comment: “Like any citizen, he is entitled to his personal opinion, although the tone of his response to President Macron’s tweet advocating the creation of a Palestinian state is unacceptable in my view.”

These tensions come amid a broader deterioration in relations between Paris and Tel Aviv, as the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen.