Macron Urges Ceasefire in Gaza: No Justification for Attacks on Civilians, Says French President

French President Macron strongly condemns Gaza civilian bombings, urging Israel to halt attacks for an immediate ceasefire. Despite supporting Israel's defence rights, Macron emphasizes protecting innocent lives during a BBC interview. Israeli PM Netanyahu attributes civilian casualties to Hamas, rejecting Macron's plea, while the international community, including US President Biden, echoes the call for a humanitarian pause.

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French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed vehement disapproval of the Israeli Defense Forces' attacks on civilians in Gaza amid the conflict with Hamas. Macron, who visited Tel Aviv last month, declared there is "no justification" for bombing innocent civilians, including "babies, ladies, and old people." In an interview with BBC, he called for an immediate ceasefire, urging Israel to halt the ongoing attacks.

Macron emphasized that while Israel has the right to protect its land, targeting civilian areas in Gaza is unacceptable. He urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, whom he had previously supported, to refrain from such actions. Macron's call for a ceasefire was reinforced at an international peace forum in Paris, where he highlighted the unanimous agreement among governments and aid agencies on the necessity of a "humanitarian pause" and subsequent ceasefire to protect Gaza's civilians.

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In response to Macron's statements, Netanyahu attributed civilian casualties to Hamas, accusing the organization of using civilians as human shields. Despite international pressure, he defended Israel's efforts to avoid harm to civilians and blamed Hamas for hindering their evacuation.

The conflict has also prompted global leaders, including US President Joe Biden, to call for a "humanitarian pause." The focus is on arranging the safe evacuation of dual citizens and foreigners in Gaza, securing the release of hostages held by Hamas, and increasing humanitarian aid to the region. The US administration, led by Secretary of State Antony Blinken, advocates for a two-state resolution, although the current leadership on both sides shows reluctance towards such negotiations.