Tensions between Israel and France escalated on Friday after French President Emmanuel Macron strongly criticized Israel’s handling of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, suggesting European countries may need to impose sanctions if conditions do not improve.
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According to AFP, Macron stated during a defense forum in Singapore that recognizing a Palestinian state is "not only a moral duty but a political necessity." He warned that Europe’s credibility would be at risk if it continued to turn a blind eye to suffering in Gaza.
“If we abandon Gaza, if we consider there is a free pass for Israel, even if we do condemn the terrorist attacks, we will kill our credibility,” Macron said, calling for a "collective hardening" of Europe’s position against Israel.
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In a scathing response, Israel’s Foreign Ministry accused Macron of siding with terrorists, calling his remarks a “crusade against the Jewish state.”
“There is no humanitarian blockade. That is a blatant lie,” the ministry said. “Instead of applying pressure on the jihadist terrorists, Macron wants to reward them with a Palestinian state. No doubt its national day will be October 7,” referencing Hamas’ 2023 attack on Israel that ignited the Gaza war.
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Macron has increased his support for Palestinians in recent months, advocating for humanitarian aid and renewed commitment to the two-state solution. France, alongside Saudi Arabia, is co-hosting a UN conference aimed at reigniting peace talks.
Israel, however, firmly opposes the creation of a Palestinian state under current conditions, particularly while Hamas remains a dominant force in Gaza.
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The Israeli Foreign Ministry concluded its statement by pointing out that Hamas had praised Macron’s comments, stating, “Hamas knows why.”
The diplomatic fallout underscores widening gaps between Israel and several European nations regarding the Gaza conflict and potential paths to peace in the Middle East.
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