Macron called on Netanyahu as France demonstrated its concerns
French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced his concerns to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the “excessive civilian casualties” arising from Israel’s confrontation with Hamas in Gaza. Despite France’s enduring alliance with Israel.
His call for a ceasefire came at a time when the US, a close ally of Israel, was also pursuing a ceasefire. On the other side, the countries in the Arab and Muslim world are on the move; their first arrival was in Beijing, from where they will travel to all UN security consuls permanent members to seek a Ceasefire and end the crisis in Gaza.
Establishment of a humanitarian truce
Macron stressed the imperative of distinguishing between terrorists and the civilian populace, urging the immediate establishment of a humanitarian truce as a precursor to a ceasefire. In a parallel conversation with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron condemned the escalating violence against Palestinian civilians in the West Bank and called for a de-escalation of tensions.
Focusing on humanitarian efforts, Macron disclosed France’s intent to extend medical aid to Gaza in response to mounting apprehensions about an impending humanitarian crisis. This aid package entails dispatching an aircraft laden with more than 10 tons of medical supplies at the outset of the week and contributions to European Union medical aid flights slated for November 23 and 30.
Furthermore, France is preparing to deploy a second hospital ship, the helicopter carrier Dixmude, which is expected to arrive in Egypt shortly. The French helicopter carrier Tonnerre, already stationed in the region, is equipped with around 60 beds and two operating theatres. France is actively marshaling its available resources to assist in the evacuation of severely wounded and ailing children from Gaza to French hospitals.
More to read: Israel forewarned by Germany
The intensification of hostilities between Israel and Hamas was spurred by an attack in Israel on October 7. During this period, Israeli authorities reported approximately 1,200 casualties. Gaza’s health ministry documented a devastating toll of 13,000 fatalities, primarily civilian, including thousands of children, as a result of the Israeli air and ground campaign in reprisal.