Macron Urges Ceasefire in Gaza and Respect for Lebanon Truce

French President Emmanuel Macron has called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt airstrikes on Gaza and respect the ceasefire with Hezbollah. This appeal follows a renewal of Israeli bombardment after a brief truce, leading to civilian casualties. Macron’s concerns extend to maintaining peace in Lebanon amid escalating tensions due to recent strikes and rocket fire.

In a recent phone conversation, French President Emmanuel Macron urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease aerial strikes on Gaza and return to the established ceasefire. He emphasized the necessity for Israel to respect the current truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon while ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid resumes immediately. Macron’s plea follows Israel’s renewed bombardment of Gaza, which occurred after a fragile truce was abandoned.

The conflict escalated following Hamas’s attack on October 7, leading to intense Israeli military actions. An airstrike on Khan Yunis resulted in significant civilian casualties, including the deaths of eight individuals, with five being children. This tragic event coincided with Eid al-Fitr, a significant Muslim holiday when displaced families sought shelter.

Macron also stressed the need for Israel to honor the ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, where recent military strikes targeted Hezbollah’s positions. This escalation resulted from possible rocket fire from Lebanon toward Israel, jeopardizing the fragile truce. Hezbollah has denied its involvement in these incidents.

Netanyahu, asserting Israel’s right to respond to threats, has declared that the operational environment has shifted. Macron condemned the strikes in Beirut, labeling them an “unacceptable” violation and highlighting the rising death toll from Israeli airstrikes.

Macron’s advocacy for peace and humanitarian considerations amidst the ongoing conflict underscores the urgent need for effective diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region and protect civilian lives.

In summary, President Emmanuel Macron’s recent discourse with Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasizes the urgent need for cessation of military actions by Israel in both Gaza and Lebanon. The tragic impacts on civilians, particularly highlighted by recent airstrikes, demand immediate humanitarian attention and stringent adherence to ceasefires. The situation requires a dedicated focus on peace initiatives to ensure lasting resolution and protection for all affected communities.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr