
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “avoid a cycle of reprisals” in the Middle East, stressing the need to prevent a “regional conflagration.” This appeal was made during a call, according to Al Jazeera amid escalating tensions on the Israel-Lebanon border. Macron emphasized that a war between Israel and Lebanon would have “destructive consequences for the entire region.”
Macron’s plea comes as hostilities intensify, with cross-border exchanges of fire-raising fears of a broader conflict. The French leader insisted that every effort must be made to avoid further escalation. He underscored that France’s “absolute priority” is to achieve an “immediate ceasefire in Gaza,” facilitate the release of all hostages, and ensure the “massive and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid” to Gaza’s population.
During their conversation, Macron reminded Netanyahu of the broader implications of the conflict, urging restraint and highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts. He reiterated France’s commitment to supporting peace initiatives and called for international cooperation to stabilize the situation. Macron’s office released a statement outlining these points, reinforcing the urgency of de-escalation.
The situation on the Israel-Lebanon border has been increasingly volatile, with both sides trading fire. The rising tensions have sparked concerns among global leaders about the potential for a wider conflict. Macron’s call to Netanyahu is part of a broader diplomatic effort to mitigate the crisis and seek peaceful resolutions.
France has historically played a significant role in Middle Eastern diplomacy, and Macron’s intervention underscores the country’s continued engagement in the region. By urging dialogue and humanitarian support, Macron aims to steer the situation towards a peaceful resolution, reflecting France’s longstanding commitment to stability and peace in the Middle East.