In a recent interview with the BBC, French President Emmanuel Macron called for Israel to halt its bombings in Gaza and cease causing civilian casualties. Macron expressed that there is no justification for the ongoing bombing and emphasized that a ceasefire would be in Israel’s best interest.
While condemning the actions of Hamas as “terrorist,” Macron recognized Israel’s right to self-defense but urged them to stop the bombing in Gaza. He expressed hope that leaders from other countries, including the United States and Britain, would join in advocating for a ceasefire.
Israel has been facing increasing appeals for restraint in its month-long conflict with Hamas, but the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, countered by stating that world leaders should be condemning Hamas instead.
Macron’s interview followed a humanitarian conference on Gaza in Paris, where he highlighted the consensus among governments and agencies for a humanitarian pause leading to a ceasefire, aiming to protect civilians not involved with terrorists.
Macron underscored the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for Israel to stop the bombing to prevent further harm to civilians, including babies, women, and the elderly.