Remarks by French President Macron on Gaza and the West Bank drew a response from senior Israeli officials. Macron said peace efforts in Gaza had proved insufficient and that no humanitarian corridor had been opened in the area.
Speaking at the opening of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, Macron said, "No humanitarian corridor could be opened in Gaza. What is happening is a situation that should make everyone ashamed."
Macron also criticized the escalating violence by Israelis who seize Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank. He stressed that this deprived the Palestinian people of their legitimate right to exist.
Israel responds to Macron
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said Netanyahu condemned Macron’s remarks. The office said Netanyahu described the remarks as "an arrogant absurdity."
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office criticized Macron’s position, alleging that Hamas members had targeted Israeli civilians in the West Bank.
Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich also accused Macron of "lying" in a post on the social media platform operated by the U.S.-based company X. Smotrich said they would continue strengthening and building illegal settlements in the West Bank.
The Israeli minister also referred to opposition leaders, saying, "A strong Religious Zionism movement will prevent the establishment of a Palestinian state and the destruction of the settlements."
Danon calls for fact-checking
Israel’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Danny Danon, also criticized Macron’s remarks. Danon said, "Before lecturing Israel, study your lesson carefully and check the facts."
Alongside Israel’s attacks on the Gaza Strip with U.S. support since October 8, 2023, pressure on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem has also increased through arrests, land seizures and home demolitions.
