France's President Macron under fire for moral insensitiveness regarding hostage negotiations with Israel
In the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, negotiations for a ceasefire appear to be stalled, with the US recalling its envoy from Qatar due to Hamas's unwillingness to achieve a truce in Gaza.
The American delegation's withdrawal was announced by Steve Whitcoff, the US President's envoy, on July 24. The Israeli Foreign Ministry has also stated that the patience of key negotiating group members is "running out," as reported on July 22.
This stalemate in the peace talks has been a topic of concern, with Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticising French President Emmanuel Macron for his actions. Saar described Macron's equating of Israeli hostages held by Hamas to convicted Palestinian terrorists as "an example of deceit and moral perversion in French politics."
Dmitry Hendelman, an advisor to the office of the Israeli Prime Minister, shared similar sentiments. He criticised Macron for equating Eviatar David, one of the Israeli hostages, with Palestinian terrorists convicted of murders, rapes, bus bombings, and shooting at civilians. Hendelman further expressed that such words spoken from European platforms undermine the efforts of mediators and strengthen extremism.
As the situation in Gaza continues to escalate, Israel is intensifying its military operations while coordinating with the US to increase humanitarian aid. On the same day, President Macron called for an end to the fire in the Gaza Strip and the release of all hostages, including those on both sides.
However, it is unclear how Macron’s statements have influenced the ceasefire talks, as no direct impact has been reported in the latest sources. Hendelman believes that Macron's actions undermined the basis for a hostage release deal and gave Hamas an excuse to refuse an agreement on the Gaza Strip.
On a more personal note, Yaela David, sister of Eviatar David, who was identified in a video distributed by Hamas on August 1, expressed concern about her brother's condition. She asked not to publish the footage until the family makes a decision.
As of August 3, 2025, the situation in Gaza remains complex, with no clear progress towards a ceasefire. The role of President Macron and his comments in this process are yet to be fully assessed.
[1] RIA Novosti news agency can be read on Telegram.
General news outlets, such as RIA Novosti on Telegram, are covering the stalled ceasefire negotiations in Gaza between Israel and Hamas, with the US withdrawal of its envoy adding to the political tension. Crime and justice discussions have emerged, as French President Emmanuel Macron's remarks about Israeli hostages held by Hamas have been criticized for their potential negative impact on the peace process.
