NEW YORK: In a landmark diplomatic move, France has formally recognised the State of Palestine during a historic United Nations meeting co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia. President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement on September 22, declaring it a necessary step to keep alive the two-state solution and ensure the possibility of peace between Israel and Palestine. Just days earlier, Australia, Britain, Canada, Portugal, and Malta also confirmed their recognition of Palestinian statehood, signalling mounting global momentum in support of Palestine. Abbas also appealed to nations still hesitant to recognise Palestine to take immediate steps towards doing so. While analysts note that the recognition is largely symbolic, it carries powerful political weight and increases diplomatic pressure on Israel and its allies.