Politico: Macron aims to build counterbalance to Israel and US at UN General Assembly

French President Emmanuel Macron plans to rally a coalition of countries around the recognition of Palestine as a state during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, seeking to establish a global counterweight to Israel and the United States.

According to Report, citing Politico sources, Australia, Andorra, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Canada, Luxembourg, Malta, Portugal, and France are expected to announce their recognition of Palestine at the UN session. This move is described as a "diplomatic victory" for Paris and part of efforts to pressure Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt military operations in the Gaza Strip, one insider told the publication.

However, Politico notes that Macron"s attempt to present a "united front" against Israel and its US ally, President Donald Trump, highlights divisions within the European Union. Germany and Italy currently refuse to recognize Palestinian statehood, while UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer-who supports Macron"s initiative-is reportedly unlikely to attend the assembly.

Macron has announced that on September 22, a conference will be held at the UN focusing on Palestinian recognition, regardless of ongoing hostilities in Gaza or Israeli government actions. On July 24, he stated France"s intention to recognize Palestine during the General Assembly session. The Élysée Palace confirmed that nine additional countries are expected to follow France"s lead at the event.