French President Emmanuel Macron recently reminded Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of the circumstances surrounding Israel's establishment, emphasizing that it was founded by a decision of the United Nations. Macron's comments, made during a closed-door cabinet session, urged Netanyahu not to evade UN resolutions, a statement that has sparked controversy after being leaked to the press. Netanyahu's office quickly responded, asserting that Israel's founding was not solely based on a UN resolution.
In addition to addressing Israel's founding, Macron has called for a halt to arms shipments to Israel, advocating for a political solution to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. He labeled it 'absolutely unacceptable' for Israeli forces to target the United Nations peacekeeping force in Lebanon, warning that France would not tolerate further aggression. Netanyahu, in response to Macron's remarks, expressed defiance, stating that Israel would prevail regardless of international support.
The situation remains tense as Macron's statements reflect a broader concern in France regarding Israel's military actions and their implications for regional stability. The French presidency later clarified that France would continue to supply Israel with necessary defense weapons, indicating a complex diplomatic relationship amid the ongoing conflict.
