BANDUNG, SEATIZENS – During a closed-door meeting with his cabinet at the Elysee Palace, French President Emmanuel Macron sharply criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the recent controversial actions taken by the Tel Aviv government. Macron emphasized the importance of recalling the foundation of the State of Israel, which connects closely to a decision made by the United Nations (UN).
Macron stated, “Mr. Netanyahu must not forget that his country was established based on a UN decision.” He referred to the resolution that the UN General Assembly adopted in November 1947. This resolution partitioned Palestine into Jewish and Arab states. Macron claimed that Israel’s existence as a nation links directly to this resolution. Therefore, he urged Netanyahu to respect the demands of the UN, which played a crucial role in establishing the state.
Macron also mentioned, “This is not the time to ignore UN decisions.” He made this statement amid rising global protests against Israel’s ongoing military actions in the Gaza Strip. Concurrently, Israel recently escalated its conflict into southern Lebanon.
Israel’s Actions in Lebanon and International Response
Israel’s latest attacks in southern Lebanon targeted United Nations peacekeeping forces (UNIFIL), causing injuries to several personnel. Israel justified these attacks as necessary to neutralize threats posed by Hezbollah operations close to the UNIFIL base. However, many nations criticized this action, calling for an immediate halt to Israeli military operations. Despite widespread condemnation, Israel has continued its military campaign.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office quickly issued a response, stating that UN decisions did not determine Israel’s existence. Instead, victories achieved in the War of Independence created the state. “It is not a UN decision that established the State of Israel, but the victories won through the sacrifice of our warriors,” the statement asserted.
The office’s remarks highlighted that many fallen fighters were victims of the Holocaust and violence inflicted by the Vichy regime in France.
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This article outlines the ongoing tensions between France and Israel while highlighting the critical importance of international oversight and responses to the protracted conflict in the region.
(Firyal Trinidad)
