Israel to France: Macron Visit Unwelcome Amid Palestinian Recognition Push

Israel has signaled that a visit by French President Emmanuel Macron would be unwelcome in the current diplomatic climate, following France’s declared intent to recognize a Palestinian state at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly session.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar told his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot that Macron’s presence in Israel would serve no purpose while France continues to advance initiatives that “harm Israel’s interests,” according to a statement from Israel’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday.

Sa’ar criticized France’s push for Palestinian statehood recognition, arguing that it undermines Israel’s security, threatens regional stability, and emboldens groups that reject peace. “This harms Israel’s national and security interests,” Sa’ar said, adding that Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, lacks popular legitimacy and has avoided holding elections for nearly two decades.

The warning comes amid growing frustration in Jerusalem over what it views as a series of anti-Israel measures by Paris. While Israel values its long-standing ties with France, Sa’ar emphasized that those relations must be grounded in mutual respect for each nation’s essential security concerns.

“France must respect Israel’s position when it comes to matters essential to its security and future,” he said.

The two diplomats also discussed a range of international issues, including the war in Gaza, rising tensions along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, the conflict in Ukraine, and European plans to activate “snapback” sanctions on Iran a move supported by Israel.

France’s initiative to recognize a Palestinian state is part of a broader campaign led by several Western nations and Arab allies to pressure Israel following the war with Hamas. Israel has firmly rejected these moves, calling them premature and damaging to the prospects of genuine negotiations.

With Macron’s planned visit now clouded by controversy, Jerusalem is drawing a clear line: support for unilateral recognition will have diplomatic consequences.

Israel continues to defend its sovereignty and security while engaging the world with clarity and resolve. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates on Israel’s diplomatic strategy and regional partnerships.