Macron Urges Mahmoud Abbas to Reform Palestinian Authority

Simultaneously with the recognition of Palestine by Spain, Ireland, and Norway, Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, urged Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the Palestinian Authority, to "implement necessary reforms and provide a vision for the recognition of the State of Palestine." On Wednesday, June 10, Macron told Abbas: "France supports a reformed and strengthened Palestinian Authority that can fulfill its responsibilities across Palestinian territories, including Gaza, for the benefit of the Palestinian people." According to the Elysee Palace, Macron emphasized France's commitment to creating a shared vision of peace with European and Arab partners, providing security guarantees for both Palestinians and Israelis, and considering the recognition of the State of Palestine as "part of a beneficial process." France's outreach to the Palestinian Authority president has provoked anger from Israel following the recognition of Palestine by Spain, Norway, and Ireland. Meanwhile, French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné accused these three countries of "political positioning" ahead of the European elections on June 9. Macron had also stated on Tuesday, June 9, that he was ready to recognize a Palestinian state, but such an action should occur "at an appropriate moment" and should not be based on "emotions." Abbas's office stated that he expressed the Palestinian government's commitment to "reforms" during negotiations with Macron, urging "European countries that have not recognized the State of Palestine" to do so. The recognition of the "State of Palestine" by the three European countries has elicited a strong reaction from Israeli leaders. The Israeli Prime Minister warned that this action would lead to the establishment of a "terrorist state." Benjamin Netanyahu stated in a statement that the intention of several European countries to recognize the State of Palestine is a "reward for terrorism."