By Middle East Monitor,
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his concern about the Israeli army’s attacks on the Gaza Strip and the comprehensive blockade imposed by Israel on it.
Macron said that France recognises Israel’s “right and legitimate wish to fight against terrorism,” adding that France was “ready to provide our assistance.”
He noted in Brussels on Friday after a meeting with leaders of European Union (EU) countries: “The complete blockade, the indiscriminate bombardment and even more the prospect of a massive ground operation” are risks for civilians in Gaza and do not provide the required protection for them.
Macron also said Israel must “better target (…) terrorists,” noting: “It is essential that the distinction is made from the start, very clearly, with civilian populations.”
Macron also called for a “humanitarian truce”, adding that it would be: “Useful today to be able to protect those who are on the ground, who have suffered bombings.”
He and other European country leaders collectively called for “humanitarian corridors and pauses,” adding there was a French coalition with other European countries willing to establish a humanitarian sea corridor to Gaza.
Israel has repeatedly rejected calls for a ceasefire and has continued to launch massive air and artillery strikes on targets in Gaza since the Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas launched large-scale surprise attacks on Israel on 7 October.
Israel, the EU and the US classify Hamas, which rules Gaza, as a terrorist organisation.
