RIYADH — Saudi Arabia has welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement of France's intention to formally recognize the State of Palestine, describing the move as a "historic decision" that reinforces international support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination. In a statement issued Thursday, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs praised France's position as a reaffirmation of global consensus on the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The Kingdom said the move aligns with international law and United Nations resolutions, calling for a just and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue. "The Kingdom underscores the importance of continued efforts by states to implement international resolutions and uphold international law," the statement read, emphasizing the diplomatic weight of Macron's pledge. Riyadh also renewed its longstanding call for countries that have not yet recognized the State of Palestine to do so, urging the international community to take serious and effective steps to advance peace and support the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. President Macron announced on Thursday that France would recognize the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly session in September. "Faithful to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognize the State of Palestine," he wrote on X. He underscored the urgency of halting hostilities in Gaza, securing the release of hostages, and delivering large-scale humanitarian aid to civilians. Macron also called for the demilitarization of Hamas and a plan to rebuild Gaza. "The goal must be to build the State of Palestine, ensure its viability, and enable it—by accepting its demilitarization and fully recognizing Israel—to contribute to the security of all in the Middle East," he said. "There is no alternative," Macron added, stressing the French people's desire for peace and calling for a joint effort among Israelis, Palestinians, and international partners to make it a reality. In a letter to the Palestinian Authority president, Macron affirmed France's commitment to peace, citing mutual trust and clear intentions. "Trust, clarity, and commitment. We will achieve peace," he concluded.
