Macron Calls for Pause in Arms Deliveries to Israel Amid Gaza Conflict

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged a halt to the delivery of weapons to Israel, which has been involved in military actions against Gaza and recently Lebanon. Speaking to broadcaster France Inter, Macron emphasized the need for a return to political solutions. “I think that today, the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza,” Macron stated during an interview recorded earlier in the week.

Despite France not being a leading supplier of arms to Israel, its influence as a central European Union player and a permanent United Nations Security Council member is noteworthy. Macron’s position aligns with recent actions by the United Kingdom, which suspended some arms exports to Israel in September, highlighting concerns over their potential use in breaching international humanitarian law.

Macron expressed concern over Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza, which persist despite international ceasefire appeals. He remarked, “I think we are not being heard. I think it is a mistake, including for the security of Israel,” indicating that the conflict fosters “hatred.” The French President also criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s decision to deploy troops into Lebanon, stressing the need to “avoid escalation.”

Netanyahu fiercely responded to Macron’s comments, describing them as a “disgrace.” In a statement from his office, Netanyahu stated, “As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilised countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side.” He criticized Macron and other Western leaders for suggesting arms embargoes, asserting, “Shame on them.”

France addressed Netanyahu’s reaction, reiterating its longstanding friendship with Israel and characterizing the Israeli Prime Minister’s response as “excessive and detached from the friendship between France and Israel.” Macron’s remarks are seen as a message not only to Israel but also to the United States, Israel’s largest arms supplier. The U.S. had previously noted insufficient evidence to block arms shipments but acknowledged potential humanitarian law violations.

Macron’s comments were also acknowledged by international leaders. Qatar, actively mediating for a Gaza ceasefire, praised Macron’s statement as “an important and appreciated step towards stopping the war.” Jordan also supported the French leader’s stance, stressing the significance of imposing a comprehensive ban on arms exports to Israel.

These developments coincide with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot‘s visit to the Middle East, where diplomatic efforts continue to seek a ceasefire in the region.