In statements to TF1, the outgoing foreign minister addressed the historic day ahead at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, where President Emmanuel Macron will announce the recognition of Palestine, which is also expected to be done by Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, and San Marino.

Barrot underscored that Macron’s decision will take immediate effect, but its implementation, like the establishment of diplomatic relations, will be gradual and conditioned by the situation on the ground, particularly the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

He responded to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who considers the recognition of Palestine a threat to his country and “an absurd reward for terrorism,” referring to Hamas.

In the French foreign minister’s opinion, the decision means the opposite: “a categorical denial of Hamas and its definitive isolation.”

The United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia recognized Palestine on Sunday, as 150 of 193 UN member states, a figure that should reach 157 this Monday, have taken that step.

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