French President Emmanuel Macron explored the possibility of making a surprise visit to Israel last week, ahead of the UN General Assembly, where France plans to recognize a Palestinian state — but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the idea and set a condition.

Axar.az informs, citing Ynet, Israel’s public broadcaster Kan 11 reported the news on Wednesday.

According to former French member of Parliament Meyer Habib, Netanyahu conveyed that Macron would only be welcome in Israel if he retracted his plan to recognize Palestine. Macron, however, reportedly stood firm and refused Israel’s demand.