France will officially recognize the state of Palestine, "true to its historic commitment to a just and lasting peace in the Middle East," Emmanuel Macron said.

Observers point out that by recognising Palestine, French President Emmanuel Macron hopes to pressure his European allies, including the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy, to take a stance and revive the long-defunct two-state solution.

When Macron visited the Egyptian town of Al-Arish on the border with Gaza in April, he was struck by the mounting humanitarian crisis and made clear on his return home that Paris would soon opt for recognition.