French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has reaffirmed that France is “determined to recognise the State of Palestine,” emphasising the urgent need for international action in light of the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza, Wafa reports.

In an interview with France’s LCI news channel, Barrot condemned the killing of hundreds of Palestinian aid seekers by Israeli forces in Gaza, calling it “a disgrace and an affront to human dignity.”

According to Barrot, at least 500 Palestinians were killed and around 4,000 injured in May alone while trying to access food aid in the besieged Strip. He affirmed that both France and the European Union are ready to support safe and fair food distribution efforts in Gaza.

“There is no justification for the continued Israeli attacks on Gaza,” Barrot said.

“We are committed to recognising the State of Palestine, and this will happen as part of a joint initiative that encourages all parties to create the necessary conditions for the establishment of that state.”