Macron Condemns Israel’s Attack on UN Peacekeepers

French President Emmanuel Macron has voiced his “indignation” regarding Israel’s attack on United Nations (UN) peacekeepers in Lebanon, according to a statement from the French presidential office.

In a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Macron urged an end to what he described as “unjustifiable targeting” of UN forces. The Elysee emphasized the critical role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in maintaining credibility and security in the region.

Macron called for an immediate ceasefire and reaffirmed France’s commitment to working alongside UN forces and the Secretary-General to ensure the full implementation of the UNIFIL mission. He condemned both Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel and Israel’s retaliatory strikes, which have contributed to the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon.

Additionally, Macron expressed strong concern about the escalating violence in the West Bank, particularly against civilians by settlers and the rapid expansion of settlements.

Since October 8, 2023, exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and the Israeli army along the Lebanon-Israel border have heightened fears of a wider conflict amidst the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel in Gaza.