PARIS – French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has cautioned Israel against retaliating in response to France’s recognition of a Palestinian state. The warning specifically addresses potential actions like the closure of the Israeli embassy.

In an interview with the TF1 channel, Barrot addressed the possibility of Israeli retaliation, stating, “in no case is your interest. If such measures are taken, we will respond with extreme firmness. I hope we will not get there.” He emphasized that France’s recognition of the Palestinian State “concurs to the security of Israel.”

According to Barrot, “Its application will be progressive and conditioned to elements on the ground, including the release of hostages.”

France has outlined additional conditions for advancing the recognition of the Palestinian State. These include a commitment from the Palestinian National Authority (ANP) to undertake significant governance reforms, as well as the disarmament of Hamas, requiring them to relinquish control of Gaza, with the support of allied Arab nations.

France’s Position on “Genocide” Allegations

“Gaza has become a place of death.”

Barrot explained France’s reluctance to use the term “genocide” to describe the situation in gaza, citing that such determinations should be made by “international jurisdictions, to the International Court of Justice, to the International Criminal Court (TPI).” However, he acknowledged a UN report using the term “genocide,” highlighting the severity of the situation and calling for “cessation” because “Gaza has become a place of death.”

Macron’s Upcoming Speech

French President emmanuel Macron is scheduled to deliver a speech in New York at the UN General Assembly, where he is expected to formally announce France’s recognition of the Palestinian State. In anticipation of the speech, the Palestinian and Israeli flags were projected onto a French monument, alongside a dove carrying an olive branch, symbolizing peace. This symbolic gesture has sparked controversy, particularly following a request from the Socialist Party for municipalities to symbolically wave the Palestinian flag, a move opposed by Interior Minister Bruno Retilleau, who deemed it contrary to neutrality.