France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has said France is “working towards the recognition of a Palestinian state”, a diplomatic push he hopes would inspire other states to do the same, Al Jazeera reports citing Barrot’s interview with France’s RTL Radio.

“France’s voice is heard when it speaks on these issues,” said Barrot. “We want other countries to act alongside France, for commitments to be made and for France to help create the conditions for the very existence of the Palestinian state — which is far from guaranteed.”

In Gaza, he added, “the urgent priority is a ceasefire and unimpeded access to humanitarian aid… The risk of famine is real. Humanitarian access must be opened immediately.”