YONI BEN MENACHEM -- Tensions between Israel and France have significantly escalated as preparations advance for the upcoming international summit on a two-state solution. The conference, initiated by Saudi Arabia and France, is scheduled to take place in New York from June 17 to 20.
Senior Israeli officials say the fallout from the Gaza war—including high casualties, dire humanitarian conditions, and diplomatic deadlock—has widened the rift. France’s declared support for recognizing a Palestinian state has prompted Israel to threaten unilateral actions, such as applying sovereignty over parts of Judea and Samaria. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has warned that recognition of Palestinian statehood could trigger Israeli annexation moves.
While President Emmanuel Macron has not spoken to Prime Minister Netanyahu for over a month—a sharp shift from prior frequent contact—he did host President Isaac Herzog recently, signaling that France’s dispute is with Israel’s right-wing government, not the state itself.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told Le Monde that the summit is “balanced,” aiming to recognize both Israel and a Palestinian state, dismantle Hamas, reform the Palestinian Authority, and ensure regional normalization. But Israeli officials see it differently, viewing the move as a reward for Hamas and the PA’s support for terror.