Saudi Arabia Urges Global Recognition Of Palestinian State Following France’s Lead.
Riyadh has called on all nations to follow France’s example and officially recognise Palestine as a sovereign state, describing the move as a critical step towards upholding international law and supporting peace in the Middle East. The Saudi Foreign Ministry’s statement comes in response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France will formally recognise a Palestinian state at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2025, making it the first G7 nation to do so.
The Saudi Foreign Ministry praised France’s decision as “historic,” stating that it “reaffirms the international community’s consensus on the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state.” The kingdom urged other countries to take similar steps, emphasising that recognising Palestine, based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, is essential for a just and lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The statement reflects Saudi Arabia’s longstanding advocacy for a two-state solution, a position reiterated during recent diplomatic engagements.
France’s move has sparked varied reactions globally. Palestinian Authority officials welcomed the decision, with Vice President Hussein al-Sheikh expressing gratitude for France’s commitment to international law. In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the announcement, arguing that it “rewards terror” following Hamas’s attack on Israel on 7 October 2023. The United States, a key ally of Israel, also opposed the decision, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling it “reckless” and a setback to peace efforts.
Saudi Arabia’s call aligns with broader regional support, as Gulf Cooperation Council members, including Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain, along with Egypt, have also endorsed France’s stance. Qatar described the move as “significant support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people,” while Egypt urged other nations to follow suit to affirm the principles of peace and justice. The upcoming ministerial conference co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia on 28 and 29 July 2025 aims to further discussions on a two-state solution, with a second event planned alongside the UN General Assembly.
This development follows months of diplomatic efforts by France and Saudi Arabia, who had initially planned a UN-backed conference in June to establish a roadmap for Palestinian statehood. The event was postponed due to regional tensions, including a 12-day Israel-Iran air conflict that disrupted travel for Arab representatives. Macron’s announcement is seen as a strategic move to set the tone for these discussions, encouraging other nations to consider recognition despite resistance from allies like the UK and Canada.
The Saudi statement underscores the kingdom’s commitment to advancing Palestinian statehood while navigating its complex diplomatic ties, including with the United States. As global momentum builds, with over 140 countries already recognising Palestine, the call for widespread recognition signals a potential shift in the international approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, aiming to foster a path towards peace and stability in the region.
