French President Emmanuel Macron is concerned about the fate of civilians in the Gaza Strip due to the Israeli military operation in response to rocket attacks by Hamas and advocates a return to peace in the region. He said this in phone talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday
“The president of the republic held talks today with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as part of efforts to end the escalating violence in the Middle East”, – the French leader’s administration said in a statement. – “Macron stressed the urgent need for a return to peace. He also expressed his concern for the civilian population in Gaza.”
At the same time, Macron expressed his condolences to the Israeli prime minister over the deaths of Israelis in rocket attacks by Hamas. He condemned the actions of the movement “and other terrorist groups that have claimed responsibility” for the attacks. Macron also expressed commitment to Israel’s security and supported the right to self-defence under international law.