A major diplomatic clash erupted between Israel and France after French President Emmanuel Macron called for a halt to arms deliveries to Israel that could be used against Hamas in Gaza. Macron’s statement, made on Saturday, sparked outrage in Jerusalem, fueling tensions already simmering in the region.
Macron asserted that halting arms shipments is crucial for achieving a “political solution” between Israel and Hamas, particularly ahead of the first anniversary of the October 7 surprise attack by Hamas. During an interview with broadcaster France Inter, Macron emphasized, “I think that today, the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza. France is not delivering any.”
Macron also expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis in Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire. He stated that avoiding escalation in Lebanon is a “priority,” emphasizing that Lebanon should not become another Gaza. He also expressed concerns about the conflict fueling “hatred.”
In a strong rebuke, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video statement condemning Macron’s remarks as “a disgrace.” He defended Israel’s right to defend itself, pointing to threats from Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Iran.
Netanyahu emphasized that while Israel fights “the forces of barbarism led by Iran,” “all civilized countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side.” He questioned why Western leaders are calling for an arms embargo against Israel while Iran, the primary sponsor of terrorism in the region, is not facing similar restrictions. He challenged Macron’s logic, stating, “Shame on them.”
In response to Netanyahu’s criticism, the Élysée Palace, the office of the French President, clarified that Macron “supports Israel’s security and demonstrates it.” The French government highlighted its recent mobilization of its military in response to an Iranian missile attack. Macron personally reassured the Iranian president of France’s commitment to Israel’s security, stating that France would not tolerate attacks on Israel by Iran or its proxies.
However, the Élysée maintained that Macron believes “the urgent need is to avoid the escalation of tensions in the region,” including an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. They stressed the need for “diplomatic solutions” and emphasized that France is a “steadfast friend” of Israel. They dismissed Netanyahu’s criticisms as “excessive and unrelated to the friendship between France and Israel.”
Amidst the diplomatic row, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot is scheduled to visit Israel on Monday to commemorate the October 7 attacks. The French embassy in Israel stated that Barrot will “reaffirm France’s call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages held by Hamas, including French nationals Ofer Kalderon and Ohad Yahalomi.”
It is important to note that France is not the only nation to pause arms supplies to Israel. In September, the United Kingdom suspended some arms exports to Israel, citing a “clear risk” that they could be used in violation of international humanitarian law. This ongoing diplomatic controversy underscores the complex and sensitive dynamics at play in the region, with tensions simmering over the ongoing conflict and the potential for further escalation.
