Macron Calls for Arms Embargo on Israel Amid Gaza Conflict, Faces Sharp Criticism from Netanyahu

In a bold move, French President Emmanuel Macron has publicly called for a halt to arms deliveries to Israel in connection with its military actions in Gaza. Macron’s statement, made during an interview with France Inter radio, emphasized the need for a return to political dialogue and a cessation of arms being used to fuel the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His comments came amid rising international concerns over the escalating violence in the region and Israel’s decision to launch ground operations in Lebanon.

Macron’s call for an arms embargo drew sharp criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who responded forcefully, accusing Macron and other Western leaders of undermining Israel’s right to self-defense. Despite the diplomatic tension, Macron reaffirmed France’s “unwavering commitment” to Israel’s security in a subsequent telephone conversation with Netanyahu.

Macron’s Appeal for Ceasefire and Arms Embargo

• During an interview recorded on Tuesday and aired on Saturday, President Macron expressed concerns over the continued conflict in Gaza and the need to halt arms deliveries. He stressed, “The priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza.”
• Speaking at a summit in Paris, Macron reiterated that France is not delivering any weapons to Israel and described the decision to send ground troops into Lebanon as an alarming development. He added, “Lebanon cannot become a new Gaza.”

Netanyahu’s Strong Rebuttal

• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu swiftly condemned Macron’s stance, calling it “a disgrace” and criticizing the suggestion of an arms embargo. In a video released by his office, Netanyahu said, “Israel will win with or without their support.”
• He further remarked, “Shame on them,” referring to Macron and other Western leaders who support the idea of restricting arms supplies to Israel.
• During a telephone call with Macron on Sunday, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel’s military operations, including its fight against Hezbollah, would contribute to stabilizing Lebanon and bringing broader stability to the Middle East.

France’s Position and Macron’s Concern

• Macron’s office later clarified that France remains a steadfast friend of Israel, but also noted that Netanyahu’s reaction was “excessive and detached” from the historical friendship between the two nations.
• Macron expressed his regret over Israel’s decision to proceed with ground operations in Lebanon, despite both the US and France calling for a ceasefire in the region. He emphasized that avoiding an escalation in Lebanon was a “priority.”

Israel’s Stand on the Speech

• Netanyahu’s office released a statement reaffirming Israel’s right to self-defense and urging civilized nations to support Israel in its fight against what he described as the “forces of barbarism” led by Iran. Netanyahu remarked: “Israel’s friends are expected to stand behind it, and not impose restrictions on it that will only strengthen the Iranian axis of evil.”
• Macron’s office, meanwhile, maintained that France’s position was rooted in ensuring that the conflict did not escalate further, particularly in Lebanon, which Macron fears could mirror the devastation seen in Gaza.

Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis

• The ongoing conflict has claimed thousands of lives in Gaza since the outbreak of violence in October 2023. Monday marks the first anniversaryof Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, in which approximately 1,200 people were killed and 251 others taken hostage.
• Macron will meet with the relatives of Franco-Israelis who were taken hostage during the Hamas attack, continuing France’s diplomatic engagement with Israel despite the recent disagreements over military aid.

Sources: BBC | CNN | Al-Jazeera