Macron Calls for Arms Embargo Against Israel Amid Ongoing Conflict
French President Emmanuel Macron urges a halt to arms deliveries to Israel and critiques its military activities in Lebanon amid rising tensions in the region. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu responds defiantly, asserting Israel’s right to self-defense against Iranian-backed groups.
On a recent broadcast, French President Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate cessation of arms sales to Israel, particularly for its operations in Gaza, following Israel’s continued military actions in the region. Macron underscored the necessity of prioritizing a political resolution to the ongoing conflict, stating, “I think that today, the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza.” He emphasized France’s own non-involvement in arms supplies to Israel while lamenting the failure of cease-fire requests and the escalating violence that breeds animosity. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reacted sharply to Macron’s remarks, asserting that civilized nations should support Israel amid what he termed a battle against forces of barbarism, which he claimed are spearheaded by Iran. Netanyahu’s statement included sharp criticism of Western leaders who advocate for arms embargoes against Israel, deeming such calls disgraceful given the threats posed by Iranian-backed groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. He declared, “Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them.” Furthermore, he expressed confidence in Israel’s military capabilities, insisting that support from these nations is unnecessary for victory. In his statements, Macron stressed the importance of preventing further escalation of tensions in Lebanon, warning that it must not devolve into a situation akin to that of Gaza. He reiterated the calls for a cease-fire voiced by various international entities, including the International Organization of La Francophonie, which comprises 88 nations, highlighting the concerns for humanitarian impacts amid the ongoing conflict. Macron affirmed Israel’s right to self-defense but remained critical of Netanyahu’s recent military actions in Lebanon, noting in a conference speech, “I regret that Prime Minister Netanyahu has made another choice, has taken this responsibility, in particular, for ground operations on Lebanese soil.” Meanwhile, Israel commemorates the first anniversary of the tragic October 7 Hamas attack, which has intensified the conflict in Gaza and now impacts Lebanon.
The critique by President Macron comes at a time of escalating tension between Israel and Palestinian groups, primarily Hamas, which resumed hostilities resulting in significant civilian casualties. The conflict has drawn international attention, with calls for cease-fires from various platforms aiming to alleviate human suffering. Netanyahu’s government faces the challenge of responding to external pressures while dealing with the complexities of regional security, particularly concerning Iranian influence and support for militant groups hostile to Israel.
In summary, President Macron’s call for a halt on arms deliveries to Israel and criticism of its military operations in Lebanon signifies the complex interplay of international diplomacy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. As tensions remain high and the humanitarian situation worsens, both Israel’s right to defend itself and the urgent need for peace negotiations come to the forefront of global discussions.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
