Sources in France reacted Saturday night to Prime Minister Netanyahu's remarks about French President Emmanuel Macron that he made a "serious mistake - factually and morally." Netanyahu's comments came after the French president said that "Israel needs to stop killing women and children in Gaza."
The sources clarified that President Macron's views and position on the situation in Israel/Gaza have not changed since day one. From October 7 onwards, they claim, the president repeatedly condemned barbaric Hamas terrorist attacks and supported Israel's right to defend itself, expressed full solidarity with the victims of Hamas attacks, and constantly called for the swift and unconditional release of all hostages.
Prime Minister Netanyahu with French President Macron, photo: AFP
The French sources added that 40 French citizens had been killed by Hamas and stressed that France shared Israel's grief. President Macron was the first international leader to call for a framework of international cooperation similar to the coalition against ISIS, but he added that alongside the fight against terrorism, immediate humanitarian action is needed to deal with the current crisis in Gaza, and that a political initiative will be necessary to strive for long-term stability.
Despite all this, France said that while his views have not changed, President Macron recognizes like everyone else that the situation on the ground is evolving, and that the number of collateral civilian casualties in Gaza is growing rapidly. His answers to BBC questions only reminded us of the intolerable nature of the suffering of innocent people, in this case in Gaza. He expressed his deepest grief and sorrow for the Israeli victims in many other interviews.
IDF activity in the Gaza Strip, photo: IDF Spokesperson
President Herzog in his meeting with French President Macron,
"Unacceptable blackmail"
Despite the irritating explanations, French officials reiterated that President Macron never hinted and does not think Israeli forces are deliberately targeting civilians. He consistently defines Hamas' use of hostages or the civilian population as "unacceptable blackmail."
The sources concluded that while President Macron is aware of Israel's efforts to prevent collateral damage and facilitate humanitarian access, he believes more can be done given the dire humanitarian situation or Gaza's civilian population. He therefore believes that a humanitarian pause and ultimately a ceasefire are appropriate to help Gaza's civilian population receive the necessary assistance and relief.
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