French President Emmanuel Macron landing in Israel
(Video: Reuters)
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Israel on Tuesday against the backdrop of Israel’s war against Hamas to express solidarity with the country and to attempt to mitigate the risk of escalation in the region. Upon his arrival, Macron met with families whose loved ones were abducted by Hamas into the Gaza Strip. He later met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog.
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After his meeting with the families, Macron said, "We’re connected to Israel through our shared grief. Thirty of our fellow citizens were killed on October 7th. Nine others are still missing or held as captives. In Tel Aviv, together with their families, I conveyed France’s solidarity with Israel."
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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greets French President Emmanuel Macron in Jerusalem
(Photo: EPA/CHRISTOPHE ENA / POOL )
Since the outset of the war, Macron strongly criticized Hamas, called for the release of the Israeli captives, and expressed support for Israel's right to defend itself. Back on October 7, he spoke with Netanyahu and Herzog, and later that week also met with the families of the French captives held by Hamas.
"I want to say to everyone here: France will not abandon its children. We’re doing everything in our power to free them and bring our sons and daughters back home. The French nation stands by their side," he said at the time.
Netanyahu told Macron on Tuesday in a joint statement the two made following their meeting in Jerusalem that “Hamas doesn’t threaten Jews alone, but also the Middle East, Europe, and the world.”
“Israel’s citizens refuse to allow ISIS to exist on our borders, and it’s the same ISIS that was found in the suburbs of Paris. We can’t live like this, no one can live like this. That’s why we have to neutralize Hamas and its capabilities,” Netanyahu added.
Macron spoke after Netanyahu, saying, “As was the case that a coalition formed to defeat ISIS, I call to establish an international coalition to act against terrorist organizations threatening the world.”
“We need to act against Hezbollah and what’s happening in Yemen. This is an interest of all countries in the region. The safety of the Israeli people is non-negotiable, we think Hamas is a terrorist organization that should be combated with force and without mercy. It doesn’t work for the benefit of Palestinians,” Macron added.
During their meeting at the President's Residence, Herzog expressed gratitude to Macron for coming to Israel "during this difficult time" and commended the empathy he demonstrated during his visit.
"Israel is coping with much pain, but we are a new country and committed to achieving results and defeating our enemies. The situation is very complex at this time. On the one hand, we’re demanding the immediate release of all the abductees, while at the same time, we witness the horrific crimes against humanity carried out by Hamas terrorists," Herzog said.
"This is one of the most horrific events in modern history. Ultimately, all Israelis are one people. They are all equal; those with foreign citizenship are the same as us in Israel. Like you, we are concerned about the rise of antisemitism, including in France. We care about the Jewish community in France. We must take strong action to protect them. Thank you for coming, Mr. President," he added.
Macron expressed gratitude for Herzog's words and said, "I’m here to show my support. What happened on October 7 is a terrible thing, a horrendous terror attack. Your nation is correct. It was a terrible shock to the whole world, and I'm here to convey our solidarity.”
“I've already met with some families this morning. I saw families who had lost their children, and their brothers. Some of them are still searching for their loved ones. I share your position that our goal should be the release of all captives. Playing with their lives, the lives of children, adults, and the elderly – is a crime. I want you to be sure that you’re not alone because I'm speaking here on behalf of a country that has experienced a terrorist attack, and you were there for us," the French president said.
Macron also added that "I believe it’s our duty to fight against this terror, without concessions but also without expanding this conflict. The goal is clear: to target this terrorist organization in a focused manner. To strike at their operational capabilities. I want you to feel safe; we stand shoulder-to-shoulder, and we’ll do everything in our power to restore peace and stability to your country and the region."
Both leaders addressed the involvement of Iran and Hezbollah in the war. "We’re monitoring the situation in Lebanon; we believe that Hezbollah is playing with fire. Iran, which supports them, is busy destabilizing the Middle East. We’re not seeking a confrontation on the northern border, but stay focused on destroying Hamas and its capabilities. If, however, Hezbollah drags us into a war, it should be clear that Lebanon will pay the price. We have the right to defend ourselves," Herzog cautioned.
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French President Emmanuel Macron meets with the families of hostages with dual French and Israeli citizenship
(Photo: Christophe Ena/Pool via REUTERS)
Macron commented on Herzog’s words saying: "We don't want Hezbollah to join this confrontation, and we’ve sent several messages to other potential terrorist organizations that might be interested in taking part in this conflict."
Macron is expected to meet with opposition leader Yair Lapid and also visit Ramallah for a meeting with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas.