Macron, speaking on France Inter radio, emphasized that the priority is to "return to a political solution" and stop arms deliveries to Gaza. At a summit in Paris, he expressed concerns over the conflict's continuation despite ceasefire calls and criticized Israel's deployment of ground troops into Lebanon.
Netanyahu responded swiftly but later received a phone call from Macron, during which the French president reaffirmed France's "unwavering commitment" to Israel.
In a video, Netanyahu dismissed Macron's suggestion as "a disgrace," asserting that "Israel will win with or without their support" and criticizing Western leaders for calling for an arms embargo.
Macron, on Saturday, clarified that France was not supplying weapons to Israel and added that the conflict was fostering hatred. He also stressed that preventing an escalation in Lebanon was crucial and warned that "Lebanon cannot become a new Gaza."
Netanyahu's office stated that countries not supporting Israel were indirectly supporting Iran and its proxies. Netanyahu urged all civilized nations to support Israel against forces led by Iran, criticizing Macron's stance.
Macron's office, in response, reiterated France's friendship with Israel and described Netanyahu's reaction as "excessive." Speaking in Paris, Macron regretted Netanyahu's decision to continue operations in Lebanon despite calls for a ceasefire but reaffirmed Israel's right to self-defense.
Netanyahu said Israel's fight against Hezbollah aimed to bring stability to Lebanon and the broader Middle East. Macron reiterated France's commitment to Israel's security.
Monday marks the first anniversary of the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages. Since then, over 41,000 people have died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
