Macron Urges Cessation of Strikes on Gaza and Preservation of Lebanon Ceasefire

President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israel to cease strikes on Gaza and respect the ceasefire in Lebanon. His statements follow resumed violence after a fragile truce with Hamas collapsed. Macron condemned recent air strikes resulting in casualties and emphasized the necessity of humanitarian aid.

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to cease military operations in Gaza and to return to a ceasefire, emphasizing the urgency of humanitarian aid delivery. This statement was made during a phone conversation between the leaders amid resumed bombings in Gaza, following a delicate ceasefire’s collapse with Hamas.

The resurgence of violence began on March 18, when Israel escalated its bombardment and initiated a ground offensive, marking the end of nearly two months of relative calm after Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023. Tragically, an air strike in Khan Yunis on a significant Muslim holiday resulted in the deaths of at least eight individuals, including five children.

Additionally, Macron called for Israel to uphold the ceasefire with Hezbollah in Lebanon, following a recent air strike on southern Beirut, which was the first occurrence after four months of relative peace. This attack came after rockets were launched toward Israel from Lebanese territory, raising tensions surrounding the fragile agreement.

Hezbollah, which receives support from Iran, has denied any involvement in the attacks on Israel. Netanyahu responded assertively, stating that Israel will strike any location in Lebanon deemed a threat, declaring that the context of the conflict has irrevocably changed. Macron has previously condemned the actions in Beirut, labeling them an “unacceptable” violation of the existing peace.

The context of this conflict continues to evolve, with international leaders emphasizing the need for peace and humanitarian considerations as hostilities escalate across the region.

In summary, President Macron has strongly advocated for a cessation of Israeli strikes on Gaza and a return to the ceasefire, stressing the importance of humanitarian aid. Additionally, he emphasized the need for Israel to adhere to the truce with Hezbollah in Lebanon amidst escalating violence in the region. Both domestic and international discourse highlights the urgent need for peace in response to this evolving conflict.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr