Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas expressed his gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its role in facilitating France’s historic commitment to recognizing Palestine as a state. French President Emmanuel Macron made the announcement on Thursday.

In a letter to Abbas, Macron stated that this solution is the only path that can address the legitimate aspirations of both the Israelis and the Palestinians.

It must now be brought about as quickly as possible. He also emphasised that the prospect of a negotiated solution to the Middle East conflict appears increasingly elusive, emphasizing that he cannot accept this reality.

Abbas hailed the French decision as a victory for the Palestinian people and called on other nations to adopt a similar stance in support of a two-state solution to the longstanding conflict.

Saudi Arabia has consistently supported Palestinian statehood and condemned Israel’s treatment of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.

Over 140 countries currently recognize Palestine as a state, and Macron has indicated that France will formally announce its recognition at the UN General Assembly in September.