Macron Urges Israel to Cease Strikes on Gaza and Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron urged Israel to cease its airstrikes on Gaza and uphold the ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon during a phone call with Prime Minister Netanyahu. This plea follows increased violence after the collapse of a previous truce and aims to ensure humanitarian aid delivery amid escalating hostilities.

French President Emmanuel Macron urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease airstrikes on Gaza and adhere to the ceasefire agreement in a recent phone call. He emphasized the need for Israel to honor the truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon during this critical time.

Macron’s appeal comes as Israel intensified its bombardment of Gaza following the breakdown of a precarious peace with Hamas. He stated, “I called on the Israeli prime minister to put an end to the strikes on Gaza and return to the ceasefire, which Hamas must accept. I underlined that humanitarian aid must be delivered again immediately,” via the X social network.

The bombing began anew on March 18, concluding a two-month cessation following an earlier attack from Hamas on October 7, 2023. On a recent Sunday, an Israeli airstrike in Khan Yunis reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least eight individuals, including five children, as observers recognized Eid al-Fitr, the celebration marking the end of Ramadan.

Furthermore, Macron urged for strict compliance with the ceasefire in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes on a Hezbollah stronghold in southern Beirut reinitiated hostilities after four months of armored quiet. This strike followed rocket fire from Lebanon towards Israel, challenging the tenuous peace.

Hezbollah, closely allied with Hamas and reportedly backed by Iran, denied participation in the rocket attacks. Despite this, Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s right to retaliate against perceived threats in Lebanon, warning that “the equation has changed.” Macron previously condemned the Beirut strikes, labeling them an “unacceptable” breach of peace.

In summary, President Macron’s actions reflect a strong international call for peace as tensions escalate between Israel, Gaza, and Lebanon. His emphasis on adherence to ceasefires highlights the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and de-escalation in both regions. The situation remains precarious as Israel responds firmly to perceived threats, adding complexity to diplomatic efforts for resolution.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr