Macron Urges Netanyahu: The Time for a Ceasefire Is Now

On the eve of the anniversary marking last year’s Hamas attacks against Israel, French President Emmanuel Macron had a phone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. During this call, Macron emphasized France’s steadfast support for Israel’s security and advocated for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, according to the French presidency.

The discussion occurred amid tense relations, following Macron’s recent public statements advocating for a halt to the provision of arms used in the Gaza conflict, stressing the need for a political resolution. Although Macron clarified that France was not supplying weapons itself, his comments had sparked a pointed response from Netanyahu the day prior.

During their conversation, Macron and Netanyahu candidly addressed the current Middle Eastern conflicts, acknowledging their differing views but expressing a mutual desire for understanding. The French president reassured Netanyahu of France’s dedication to Israel’s security, mentioning the deployment of French military resources in response to recent Iranian attacks.

The call highlighted ongoing tensions and the complex geopolitical landscape, with Israel actively engaged in military operations against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and facing threats from Iran.