'Israel' says Macron not welcome over Palestine recognition plan

'Israel’s' foreign minister has said that President Emmanuel Macron will not be allowed to visit the country as long as France proceeds with its plan to recognize a Palestinian state.

A statement from 'Israel’s' foreign ministry said Gideon Saar informed France’s top diplomat, Jean-Noel Barrot, in a phone call that “there is no room” for a presidential visit “as long as France persists in its initiative and efforts that harm Israel's interests.”

According to 'Israel’s' public broadcaster Kan, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had already rejected Macron’s request for a brief visit ahead of the UN General Assembly later this month, where the French president intends to formally recognize Palestinian statehood.

Saar urged Paris to “reconsider its initiative,” warning that such a move could undermine regional stability and harm “Israel's national and security interests.”

He added, “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.”

Tensions between the two nations have escalated since Macron announced France’s plan to recognize Palestine, with several other Western governments signaling similar intentions. The dispute intensified last month when Netanyahu accused Macron of fomenting “antisemitism,” a charge the Elysee called “abject” and “erroneous.”

France’s decision will place it among a growing number of nations recognizing Palestinian statehood since the outbreak of the Gaza war nearly two years ago.

Macron wrote on social media in July, “We must finally build the State of Palestine” and ensure that it would “contribute to the security of all in the Middle East.” He added that “the urgent priority today is to end the war in Gaza.”

At least 145 of the UN’s 193 member states now recognise or plan to recognize a Palestinian state.