Israel warns: No Macron visit if France recognises Palestine

“No Room” for visit amid recognition plans

According to a statement from Israel's foreign ministry, Saar told Barrot that “there is no room” for a presidential visit “as long as France persists in its initiative and efforts that harm Israel's interests.”

Netanyahu reportedly blocks Macron’s visit

Israel’s public broadcaster Kan reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a request by Macron to visit ahead of the UN General Assembly later this month, where Macron intends to officially recognise Palestinian statehood.

Paris urged to reconsider recognition

Saar called on France to “reconsider its initiative,” arguing that recognition would undermine regional stability and threaten Israel’s national security.

“Israel strives for good relations with France, but France must respect the Israeli position when it comes to issues essential to its security and future,” said Saar.

Rising diplomatic tensions

Tensions between the two countries have escalated since Macron's announcement. Last month, Netanyahu accused Macron of encouraging “antisemitism”, a charge the Élysée Palace strongly rejected, calling it “abject” and “erroneous.”

France joins growing list of recognisers

Macron announced in July that France would formally recognise a Palestinian state, citing the need to end the ongoing war in Gaza and contribute to long-term regional peace.

“We must finally build the State of Palestine,” Macron posted, saying it would “contribute to the security of all in the Middle East.”

France is set to join at least 145 of the 193 UN member states that currently recognise or have pledged to recognise a Palestinian state, according to an AFP tally.