Strengthened Israeli Measures if Aid Suspension Persists – According to Macron
France may escalate its response towards Israel if it persists in blocking humanitarian aid to Gaza, President Emmanuel Macron stated in Singapore yesterday. He reaffirmed France's commitment to a two-state solution to resolve the Israel-Palestinian conflict, expressing concern over the current humanitarian blockade in Gaza.
"The ongoing humanitarian restrictions are exacerbating a dire situation on the ground," Macron said during a joint press conference with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. "If there is no substantial response addressing the humanitarian crisis in the coming hours and days," he added, "we will have to firm up our collective stance." Macron suggested that France might consider imposing sanctions on Israeli settlers.
However, Macron expressed hope that the Israeli government would reconsider its position, leading to a humanitarian response. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's administration has faced mounting international criticism over the conflict in Gaza, which has seen some of the deadliest fighting in decades.
Macron's visit to Singapore included a state visit and a keynote address at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a prestigious security forum. Deep-rooted disagreements between Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel have hindered previous attempts to restore a ceasefire, broken down in March. In response to growing international pressure, Israel briefly lifted an 11-week-long aid blockade on Gaza, allowing limited humanitarian aid through the United Nations or the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
Macron reiterated France's dedication to working towards a political solution and reinforced his backing for a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Unnamed diplomatic sources suggest that France is leaning towards recognizing a Palestinian state, a move that could antagonize Israel and exacerbate Western rifts.
"The ongoing war-and-conflicts in the Israel-Palestinian region, particularly the humanitarian blockade in Gaza, is a matter of general-news concern for France, as President Emmanuel Macron has stated his intention to firm up France's collective stance if no substantial response is made to address the crisis."
"In addition, France's political discussions and decisions, as shown by President Macron's hint of imposing sanctions on Israeli settlers, could potentially lead to recognizing a Palestinian state, a move that might antagonize Israel and exacerbate Western rifts."
