Recognition of Palestinian Statehood is Welcome – But Must be Accompanied by Action

July 25, 2025 – In response to French President Emmanuel Macron’s announcement that France will recognize Palestinian statehood, Center for International Policy Executive Vice President Matt Duss issued the following statement: 

“Recognition of Palestinian statehood by countries that have yet to do so is a step in the right direction, and other governments should join France. This recognition is long overdue but, by itself, sorely insufficient in this moment of urgent crisis. 

“France and other countries, including the United States, should immediately take concrete steps to uphold international law and put real pressure on Israel to stop its campaign of forced displacement, starvation and slaughter in Gaza, and illegal annexation in the West Bank.

“To save Palestinian lives and protect Palestinian rights, world leaders must cease arms sales to Israel, suspend other forms of cooperation and enforce international court orders against Israeli officials. Bilateral and multilateral efforts to affirm the Palestinian people’s right to liberation, self-determination, and statehood are important – but they must be accompanied by tangible action.”