France's president, Macron, considers imposing sanctions against Israel due to the escalating conflict in Gaza.
In a series of recent developments, French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his disapproval of Israel's offensive against Gaza, threatening potential economic sanctions and visa bans on extremist Israeli ministers like Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich.
Macron's stance on the matter was made clear when he announced his intention to recognise Palestinian statehood next week, a move that has angered Israel. The French President has explained that this recognition is not a reward to Hamas, as the organisation does not support a two-state solution and aims to destroy Israel.
In response to Macron's decision, Israel has launched a US-backed campaign against the French President, threatening to create unfavorable conditions in the West Bank. This comes after France announced sanctions against Israel at the end of August 2025, activating the snapback mechanism to reinstate sanctions due to Israel's support for settlements in the West Bank.
Macron has also proposed targeted sanctions against individuals who back settlements in Israel, following the path of the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia. The European Commission has also proposed suspending Israel's preferential trade relations with the EU, which could cost Israel 227 million euros in additional duties.
The French President has been vocal about his concerns regarding the Gaza city operation, stating that it is "totally counterproductive" and a mistake. Macron has further expressed his frustration over personal attacks from Israeli leaders, including a letter accusing him of fanning the flames of anti-Semitism against French Jews.
Despite the escalating tensions, Macron has expressed his willingness to travel to Israel to explain his position, an offer that was refused by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The French President has maintained that his position on Iran is important for Israel and its people, who widely view Iran as an existential threat.
France, along with Britain and Germany, has triggered a mechanism to eventually "snapback" UN sanctions against Iran. The French position on Iran includes concerns about the risk of nuclear bombs, ballistic capacities, and regional destabilization.
In a separate matter, Macron has addressed the increase in anti-Semitism in the US and Germany, expressing his concern over the issue. The French President has proposed a visa ban on extremist Israeli ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, a move that has been proposed by the European Commission but faces opposition from Hungary, making consensus difficult to achieve.
As the situation between France and Israel continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these tensions will be resolved and whether Macron's threats of sanctions will be carried out.
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