Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed strong opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state during a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday. He argued that such a state would represent a “huge reward for terrorism.”
Macron responded by emphasizing the urgent need to end the suffering of civilians in Gaza, stressing that only a ceasefire in the ongoing war with Hamas would secure the release of the remaining Israeli hostages.
According to a statement from Netanyahu’s office, he asserted that a Palestinian state located minutes from Israeli cities would become a stronghold of Iranian terrorism. He noted that the vast majority of the Israeli public opposes this idea. Netanyahu emphasized that this position reflects his consistent, long-standing policy.
In contrast, Macron urged Netanyahu to open all humanitarian aid crossings into Gaza. Since 2 March, Israel has suspended all aid to the Gaza Strip to pressure Hamas.
Recognition of Palestinian State
The phone call followed Macron’s comments last week regarding the potential recognition of a Palestinian state by France. This statement ignited criticism from various groups in Israel, including Netanyahu and his son, as well as right-wing factions in France.
On Monday, Macron expressed hope that French recognition would inspire other nations to follow suit. He remarked that countries not recognizing Israel should make that change.
Before the call, Macron spoke with Mahmud Abbas, the president of the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority. He expressed willingness to support a governance plan for post-war Gaza, contingent on necessary reforms.
“It is essential to set a framework for the day after: disarm and sideline Hamas, and define credible governance to reform the Palestinian Authority,” Macron stated during their conversation.
Path to Peace Conference
Macron also indicated that these steps could pave the way for a two-state political solution, supporting the upcoming peace conference in June. His objective remains clear: to promote peace and security for everyone involved.
Israel has engaged in conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza since the latter’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
