French President Emmanuel Macron made a proposal on Tuesday to expand the current international coalition, which is combating ISIS in Iraq and Syria, to also confront Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Macron stressed the importance of restarting the Palestinian peace process decisively in the aftermath of the lethal attacks carried out by Hamas and Israel's response. During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Macron stated that France is prepared to join the international coalition against ISIS in Iraq and Syria, as well as against Hamas.
Macron restated his plea for Hamas to release all hostages and emphasized the importance of fighting terrorism with both determination and adherence to established rules. Netanyahu affirmed Israel's intention to dismantle Hamas during the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, cautioning that the war might be protracted. Earlier on Tuesday, the Israeli military announced its plans to conduct ground incursions against Hamas militants, intensifying the bombing of targets in the Gaza Strip.
During Macron's visit, he had three main objectives: demonstrating solidarity with Israel, preventing further escalation of the conflict, and engaging in political discussions to secure certain commitments from partners. However, it was not revealed whether Macron supports the idea of postponing Israel's ground attack on the Gaza Strip.
When questioned about Israel's compliance with international law during the airstrikes in the Gaza Strip, French advisers recognized the occurrence of civilian casualties but asserted that the bombings were targeted. They emphasized that the Gaza crisis has underscored the renewed significance of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and reiterated France's belief that a two-state solution is the only viable option. Additionally, Macron urged Lebanon's Hezbollah and Iran to refrain from any actions that could escalate tensions in the region. Overall, Macron stressed the importance of resolving the Palestinian conflict through political means, stating that stability in the Middle East can only be achieved if Israel also allows for such a resolution.
Macron's proposal has drawn attention and discussion from all sides. Some support his stance, believing that the international community should strengthen its fight against terrorism and play a more active role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Others express concern that expanding the coalition could further worsen the regional situation.
At the same time, the situation in the Gaza Strip has garnered widespread attention from the international community. Many countries and organizations have called on Israel and Hamas to cease hostilities and seek a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, so far, neither side has shown signs of abandoning violence, and the conflict continues.
As an important international participant, France's position and actions in the Middle East are closely watched. One of Macron's goals on this trip is to show France's support and unity with Israel and to push for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process through political discussions. However, achieving this goal requires joint efforts and compromises from all parties, including Israel, Palestine, Arab countries, and the international community.
In conclusion, the situation in the Middle East is complex and sensitive, and all parties need to maintain rationality and calmness with the goal of resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, fighting terrorism through peaceful means, and jointly promoting stability and development in the region.