Paris – Zaytoun News
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated has affirmed that France is “determined to recognize the State of Palestine,” emphasizing the urgent need for international action in light of the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
In an interview with France’s LCI news channel, Barrot condemned the killing of hundreds of Palestinian aid seekers by Israeli forces in Gaza, calling it “a disgrace and an affront to human dignity.”
According to Barrot, at least 500 Palestinians were killed and around 4,000 injured in May alone while trying to access food aid in the besieged Strip. He affirmed that both France and the European Union are ready to support safe and fair food distribution efforts in Gaza.
Barrot sharply criticized Israel’s current approach, saying that, outside the oversight of the United Nations and international organizations, Israeli forces—supported by the United States—have carried out a limited aid distribution plan since May 27, during which soldiers have reportedly opened fire on Palestinians waiting for food. He noted that this tactic effectively forces civilians to choose between “starvation or being shot.”
“There is no justification for the continued Israeli attacks on Gaza,” Barrot said. “We are committed to recognizing the State of Palestine, and this will happen as part of a joint initiative that encourages all parties to create the necessary conditions for the establishment of that state.”
France’s position follows growing international momentum toward Palestinian statehood. On May 22, 2024, Norway, Ireland, and Spain officially announced their recognition of Palestine. Previously, eight other EU countries had taken the same step: Bulgaria, Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, Cyprus, and Sweden.
To date, 149 out of 193 United Nations member states officially recognize the State of Palestine.
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