The African Union has welcomed France’s announcement that it will officially recognise the State of Palestine, describing the move as a major milestone in the global push for a peaceful and just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In a statement issued from Addis Ababa, African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said President Emmanuel Macron’s decision aligns with the AU’s long-held stance in support of Palestinian statehood and the right to self-determination.

He referred to the AU Assembly’s resolution from February 2025, which reaffirmed Africa’s collective commitment to the rights of the Palestinian people.

“The Chairperson views this development as a significant step toward a just, lasting, and comprehensive solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict,” the AU said, adding that the solution must be grounded in international law and relevant UN resolutions.

France’s President made the announcement in a message on X, saying his government would formally recognise the Palestinian state in September during the United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

If this happens, France will become the first G7 country to take such a step.

“True to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I have decided that France will recognise the State of Palestine,” Macron said in the post.

He also attached a letter addressed to Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas confirming the move.

Macron emphasised the need to end the conflict in Gaza and called for the release of hostages and urgent humanitarian aid.

“Peace is possible. We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and massive humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza,” he wrote.

He also stressed that any recognition must ensure Hamas’s demilitarisation, contribute to security in the region, and include full recognition of Israel.

“We must also guarantee the demilitarisation of Hamas, and secure and rebuild Gaza,” he said.

Palestinian leaders have welcomed the announcement, but it has drawn backlash from Israel and the United States.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said France’s move “rewards terror” in reference to the Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticised the decision as “reckless” and said Washington “strongly rejects” the announcement.

Youssouf said the AU fully supports a two-State solution where both Israel and Palestine exist side by side in peace and security.

He called on other countries to take similar steps and back “the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people.”