PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron has pressed for a “lasting ceasefire” in Gaza during a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as the Palestinian territory grapples with an escalating humanitarian crisis.
In a statement released by the French presidency, Macron expressed his “deepest concern” about civilian casualties and the urgent humanitarian situation in Gaza. The French leader, who has maintained an alliance with Netanyahu since the outset of the conflict, emphasized the need for immediate measures to address violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians in the occupied West Bank. Additionally, Macron called for preventive actions to halt the establishment of new settlements.
The French presidency also announced that France will collaborate with Jordan to conduct humanitarian operations in Gaza in the coming days.
Over 21,100 Palestinians Killed in Gaza
During the call, Netanyahu’s office reported that the Israeli Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Macron for France’s active role in defending freedom of navigation and willingness to assist in restoring security along Israel’s border with Lebanon.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a devastating toll on Gaza, with Israel vowing to dismantle Hamas with relentless bombardments and a ground invasion. The latest figures from Gaza’s health ministry report a death toll of at least 21,110 people, mostly women and children.
