French President Emmanuel Macron was likely motivated to declare his intent to recognize Palestine by a desire to quell Islamic separatism in his own country. The decision, announced on Thursday, is a break from the ranks of the European establishment,

Dozens of pro-Palestinian activists waved flags and unfurled banners on Wednesday as the Tour de France peloton rode through Dieulefit, a southeastern French town honoured as a "Town of the Just" for sheltering Jewish people during World War Two.

In a move toward "lasting peace in the Middle East," Macron says, "France will recognize the state of Palestine."

Airdrops of food have resumed in Gaza, Israel and the United Arab Emirates said, as deaths from starvation in the besieged enclave spread.