Macron’s Strong Rebuke of Netanyahu: Criticism of Gaza Policy and Rising Tensions between Paris and Jerusalem
Overview of Macron’s Statements
French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a sharp critique of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday, describing Netanyahu’s policies in Gaza as “embarrassing.” During an interview with TF1, Macron highlighted the dire situation facing half a million people in Gaza who are battling hunger, asserting the need for Europe to reconsider its sanctions against Israel.
Deteriorating Relations between France and Israel
Since the onset of the conflict, relations between Israel and France have soured significantly. Last month, Israel denied entry to a delegation of French parliament members and public officials known for their leftist views. This action was characterized by the denied members as a significant diplomatic rift, with their entry visas revoked just 48 hours before their planned departure to Israel. They expressed that this represented a serious breach in diplomatic relations and necessitated a firm response from the highest levels of the French government.
France’s Stance on Palestinian Statehood
A few days prior to Macron’s criticism, he had announced that France would likely recognize a Palestinian state in the near future. In his conversation with France 5, he indicated that this acknowledgment could occur as early as June during a joint conference of France and Saudi Arabia in New York. Macron emphasized the need for progress toward recognizing a Palestinian state, stating, “We must move towards recognition (of a Palestinian state), and we will do so in the coming months.”
Netanyahu’s Response
In reaction to Macron’s statements regarding Palestinian statehood, Netanyahu condemned the remarks and forthcoming actions in a phstart conversation with the French president. Netanyahu warned that such a recognition would be a “huge reward for terrorism.” This exchange followed a heated social media response from Netanyahu’s son, Yair, who harshly criticized Macron for his support of the Palestinian state, using explicit language on the platform X.
In the context of escalating tensions between Paris and Jerusalem, Macron’s recent criticisms and Netanyahu’s swift rebuttals underscore the growing friction as both leaders navigate their respective political landscapes amidst a backdrop of conflict and international diplomacy