IRIA News

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French President Emmanuel Macron has made a strong appeal for an end to arms deliveries to Israel, emphasizing the need for a political solution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

While speaking to a local broadcaster on October 5, 2024, Macron stated, “I think that today, the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza.” He clarified that while France is not currently supplying weapons to Israel, his comments were aimed at broader international actions to stop the violence.

This comes as Israel continues its military campaign in Gaza, which has been under intense bombing for a year, and expands operations into Lebanon, a move Macron believes risks further destabilizing the region. “The Lebanese people must not in turn be sacrificed, Lebanon cannot become another Gaza,” he added, underscoring his concerns about escalating tensions.

Although France is not a major arms supplier to Israel, Macron’s stance on the matter carries significant weight as France is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a key player within the European Union. His call for a halt in arms deliveries represents earlier decisions made by other nations, notably the United Kingdom. In September, the UK suspended certain arms exports to Israel, citing a “clear risk” of their use in violating international humanitarian law.

Macron’s concern over the humanitarian impact of Israel’s actions was evident during his interview. He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s ground operations in Lebanon and urged caution to avoid an “escalation” of violence.

“I think we are not being heard. I think it is a mistake, including for the security of Israel,” Macron noted, expressing fear that the ongoing conflict would only fuel hatred and further destabilize the region.

Israel’s strong response

Macron’s remarks were met with an immediate and sharp rebuke from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who called them “a disgrace.” In a statement issued by his office, Netanyahu lashed out at Macron and other Western leaders who have advocated for halting arms supplies to Israel. “As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilized countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side,” Netanyahu stated. He continued, “Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them.”

Netanyahu further questioned whether Iran, which he accuses of backing militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, is imposing similar embargoes on its proxies. “Of course not,” he remarked, accusing nations calling for restrictions on Israel of weakening the global fight against terrorism. Despite the criticism, Netanyahu vowed that Israel would continue its military operations with or without international support, stating, “We will win, but their shame will continue long after the war is won.”

In response to Netanyahu’s heated reaction, Macron’s office issued a statement reaffirming France’s support for Israel’s security. The President’s office emphasized that France remains a “steadfast friend of Israel” and stressed that Macron’s position was aimed at de-escalating the situation in the region. “Mr. Netanyahu’s words are excessive and unrelated to the friendship between France and Israel,” the statement read, highlighting that Macron had personally communicated with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi to stress that France would oppose any Iranian aggression toward Israel.

However, Macron remains firm in his stance that the international community must prioritize diplomatic solutions over military action. His administration has been actively involved in efforts to mediate ceasefire talks in Gaza, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot currently on a diplomatic tour of the Middle East. Barrot’s visit, which includes stops in Israel, aims to support de-escalation efforts and push for the release of hostages held by Hamas, including French nationals.

Macron’s call for halting arms supplies has found support in the region. Qatar, a key mediator in ceasefire negotiations, praised Macron’s comments as an “important and appreciated step towards stopping the war.” Jordan also welcomed the French President’s remarks, stressing the need for a complete ban on arms exports to Israel and calling for “real consequences” for the country’s actions.

As tensions continue to rise, Macron’s statements come at a critical time for international diplomacy in the Middle East. His push for a cessation of arms deliveries underscores the broader international debate over how best to respond to the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the risk of wider regional instability. While France maintains its commitment to Israel’s security, Macron’s message is clear: a political solution must be the priority to prevent further humanitarian disasters.