France and Palestine to form joint committee to strengthen Palestinian statehood

​​​​​​​During a joint press conference in Paris with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, French President Emmanuel Macron declared that France and Palestine would create a committee focused on developing constitutional, legal, and administrative foundations to reinforce the Palestinian state. Macron said the initiative reflects France’s long-standing commitment to the two-state solution and international law.

Macron warns Israel against West Bank annexation

Macron delivered a firm message to Israel, cautioning that any attempt to annex parts of the West Bank—either formally or in practice—would represent a “red line.” He added that France, along with its European partners, is prepared to respond decisively to any such violations. “The expansion of settlements and increasing settler violence threaten the stability of the West Bank and breach international law,” Macron said.

Humanitarian access to Gaza emphasized

The French leader also stressed the importance of guaranteeing humanitarian access to Gaza under UN supervision. “Safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid must be ensured in accordance with international humanitarian law,” he noted, calling for the protection of civilians amid ongoing challenges in the region.

Abbas thanks regional partners and global supporters

President Abbas expressed appreciation for recent diplomatic efforts aimed at preserving the ceasefire and delivering aid to Gaza. He acknowledged the role of Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye in facilitating humanitarian assistance and supporting post-war reconstruction. “We salute the tireless efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye in strengthening the ceasefire and aiding Gaza,” Abbas said. He also conveyed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for his continued engagement on regional peace efforts.

Abbas’s first visit since French recognition of Palestine

The visit marked Abbas’s first trip to France since Paris formally recognized the State of Palestine earlier this year—a move widely welcomed by the Palestinian leadership as a milestone toward international recognition and diplomatic legitimacy.