🇫🇷 France’s Recognition of Palestinian Statehood
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will officially recognize the State of Palestine by June 2025. This decision aligns with an international conference on the two-state solution, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia. Macron emphasized that this initiative supports both Palestinian rights and Israel’s security, explicitly denouncing Iran’s and Hamas’s refusal to acknowledge Israel’s existence. The move has been welcomed by Palestinian officials but condemned by Israeli authorities. ​
🇬🇧 UK Labour MPs Advocate for Recognition
In the United Kingdom, Labour MPs are urging the Foreign Office to recognize Palestinian statehood, especially if France advances its plans at an upcoming UN conference in June. They warn that continued Israeli annexation efforts in the West Bank threaten the viability of a future Palestinian state. This push highlights concerns over Israeli actions in Gaza and its recent ban on two UK MPs’ visits to the West Bank.
Global Solidarity Movements
Karachi, Pakistan: On April 13, tens of thousands participated in the “Gaza Solidarity March,” organized by Jamaat-e-Islami. The rally featured symbolic displays, including dolls wrapped in cloth to represent deceased children, and a large Palestinian flag. Speeches condemned Israeli military actions and called for international intervention.
Dhaka, Bangladesh: On April 12, approximately 100,000 people gathered for the “March for Gaza” at Suhrawardy Udyan. The demonstration called for an end to Israeli military actions in Gaza and urged the global Muslim community to cut diplomatic and economic ties with Israel. The event marked the largest pro-Palestine protest in Bangladesh’s history.
Palestine’s Victory in WAFF U-20 Girls Championship
Palestine’s women’s U-20 football team achieved a historic milestone by winning the 2025 WAFF U-20 Girls Championship in Jordan. They defeated the host nation, Jordan, in the final, marking Palestine’s first-ever title in WAFF history. Aya Mohammed, the tournament’s top scorer with seven goals, received widespread acclaim for her performance.