Peace is possible. We need an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and massive humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza,” French President Emmanuel Macron asserted on X, triggering a diplomatic quake that continues to resonate across the world’s most powerful democracies.

The announcement sets France apart from the United States and most of its close allies, and could cause friction with President Trump.

Macron shocked the world on Thursday when he broke ranks with his allies and announced that France would recognize Palestine as a nation-state.