Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sharply criticized French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, accusing him of siding with a “murderous Islamist terrorist organisation” after Macron condemned Israel’s blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Netanyahu’s office released a statement accusing Macron of echoing “despicable propaganda” and demanding that Israel “surrender and reward terrorism,” asserting firmly that “Israel will not stop and will not surrender.”
Macron had earlier described Israel’s policy of blocking aid to Gaza as “unacceptable” and “shameful” during a televised interview. He highlighted the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, noting there is no water, no medicine, and that wounded civilians cannot receive treatment while doctors are barred from entering. Macron called on the United States to leverage its influence, stating, “President Trump has the levers,” and emphasized that Israel depends on American weapons.
The French president’s comments come amid the ongoing conflict triggered by Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which killed over 1,200 people and resulted in the capture of hostages. Israel resumed major military operations in Gaza on March 18, aiming to force Hamas to release hostages and degrade its military capabilities. The Israeli government justifies the aid blockade as necessary to prevent Hamas from diverting supplies to its fighters.
Netanyahu’s statement reaffirmed Israel’s determination to achieve its war goals, including the release of all hostages, the destruction of Hamas’s military and governance structures, and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat. According to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, Israel’s offensive has resulted in over 52,900 deaths, mostly civilians.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has drawn international concern, with the United Nations and aid organizations warning of famine and severe shortages of essential supplies. Macron has called for reopening humanitarian aid routes and has suggested the European Union may reconsider cooperation agreements with Israel in response to its Gaza policy.
Tensions between Israel and France have escalated over the war, with Macron advocating for increased pressure on Israel and warning of potential sanctions. The French president has also taken steps such as attempting to ban Israeli defense firms from arms fairs in France and calling for an arms embargo on Israel to end the conflict.
The situation remains highly volatile, with diplomatic efforts ongoing but no indication yet from Moscow or Jerusalem that a ceasefire or peace talks will occur soon. Macron has urged Israeli and Ukrainian leaders to engage in dialogue, emphasizing the urgent need to alleviate civilian suffering in Gaza.
