Macron criticizes Trump's Gaza diplomacy at UN General Assembly

French President Emmanuel Macron used his final address to the United Nations General Assembly on September 22 to criticize the diplomatic approach of United States President Donald Trump regarding the conflict in Gaza. Speaking from the same rostrum where President Trump had earlier characterized his peace plan as a diplomatic triumph, President Macron questioned the efficacy of the current strategy.

President Macron highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the enclave, noting that despite the claims of peace made by the U.S. administration, there has been no improvement in humanitarian access. He stated that not a single humanitarian corridor had been reopened, arguing that the situation remains a spectacle that should be a source of shame for the international community.

During his speech, the French leader addressed the skepticism surrounding the recognition of Palestine as a state. While acknowledging that some critics view such recognition as merely symbolic, he defended the importance of diplomatic action. He questioned the credibility of the international community if it remains inactive while the conflict in Gaza persists.

The address marked President Macron’s final appearance at the United Nations before his scheduled departure from office in May 2027. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, he urged world leaders to move beyond rhetoric and address the reality on the ground.

Earlier in the day, President Trump had utilized his own time at the podium to reflect on the state of global affairs, noting that the war in Gaza was still ongoing when he addressed the assembly the previous year. The White House has not yet provided a formal response to the remarks made by the French President.