French President Macron Faces Backlash from Israel for Advocating Arms Embargo
Macron Calls for Arms Embargo on Israel
On Saturday, French President Emmanuel Macron made a call for a cessation of arms shipments to Israel in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In an interview with France Inter, a national broadcaster, Macron emphasized the need to prioritize a "political solution" to the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. He suggested that implementing a comprehensive arms embargo could help establish the necessary conditions for such a solution. Macron also confirmed that France had already ceased its arms deliveries to Israel.
Macron's Concerns Over Lebanon
Regarding the situation in Lebanon, where a ground war has begun in the south and Israeli airstrikes over Beirut have become frequent, Macron stressed the need to prevent escalation. He asserted that the Lebanese people should not be sacrificed and that Lebanon should not become another Gaza.
Israel's Response to Macron's Remarks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed strong disapproval of Macron's comments, calling them a "disgrace". He argued that Israel is currently defending itself against the "enemies of civilization" on seven fronts, including Gaza, Lebanon, the West Bank, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. Netanyahu insisted that all civilized countries should stand firmly by Israel's side, criticizing Macron and other Western leaders for advocating arms embargoes against Israel.
Netanyahu's Criticism of France's Stance
Netanyahu further criticized France for not condemning Iran for arming its proxies throughout the region. He questioned whether Iran was imposing an embargo on its proxies such as the Houthis or Hezbollah, and criticized countries that oppose the terror axis but call for an arms embargo on Israel. Netanyahu vowed that Israel will continue to defend itself, with or without international support.
Netanyahu's Assurance of Israel's Determination
Netanyahu assured that Israel will continue to fight until the battle is won, for the sake of its own security and for global peace and security.
France's Historical Connection with Lebanon
Lebanon holds a special place of concern for France due to its historical ties. France had colonized Lebanon alongside Syria during the French Mandate period in the early 20th century. Paris has particularly strong ties with Lebanon's Maronite Catholic population, which at one point made up almost half of the country's population.
Bottom Line
The call for an arms embargo on Israel by French President Macron has sparked a heated response from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, highlighting the complex and often tense international relations surrounding the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The situation raises important questions about the role of international intervention and the responsibility of global powers in conflict resolution. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share this article with your friends and join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered to your inbox every day at 6pm.
