Statement On France’s Announcement to Recognize Palestinian Statehood

By Robert Singer, Center for Jewish Impact Chaitman

France’s unilateral decision to recognize a Palestinian state, at a time of profound instability, with no viable negotiating partner and no security guarantees for Israel, is a troubling move that risks undermining both diplomacy and trust.

This step comes when 50 hostages still remain in Gaza, and atrocities of October 7th are still fresh. These events deeply traumatized Israeli society and shattered any remaining illusions about the intentions of Hamas and its influence in Palestinian territories.

To proceed now with symbolic recognition, detached from negotiations, demilitarization, or institutional reform, is not only premature; it sends a dangerous message that violence yields political rewards.

It also fails to reflect the current reality: Israelis across the political spectrum do not feel safe. The foundations for a negotiated peace: mutual recognition, security, and responsible leadership are not in place. In this context, international gestures that ignore these core concerns will not advance peace; they will only harden mistrust.

We do not question the sincerity of France’s commitment to peace. But peace cannot be imposed—it must be built. And that requires engagement, rather than declarations; accountability rather than ambiguity.

The international community should focus its efforts on supporting responsible actors, ensuring that humanitarian aid is delivered without empowering extremists, and laying the groundwork for genuine negotiations. The answer is not bypassing them.