In a fiery statement on Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned French President Emmanuel Macron for advocating an arms embargo on Israel. The embargo, according to Macron, would halt the supply of weapons amidst Israel’s ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. Netanyahu rebuked this stance, accusing Macron and other Western leaders of hypocrisy and a lack of understanding about Israel's defense against Iranian-backed groups.
"As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilized countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side", Netanyahu stated. "Yet, President Macron and other Western leaders are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel. Shame on them".
Netanyahu's remarks came after Macron suggested halting arms supplies to Israel, citing humanitarian concerns due to the growing number of civilian casualties in Gaza. Macron urged a political resolution, emphasizing the need to protect civilian populations and prevent further escalation. However, Netanyahu firmly rejected this, insisting that Israel’s military actions are vital to its survival against groups like Hezbollah, Hamas, and other Iranian proxies. He also mentioned the 180 missile attack on Israel by Iran.
Macron’s Call for Restraint
President Macron, during an interview, emphasized that France has a long-standing commitment to Israel's security but believes that military escalation in Gaza should be reconsidered. "We must stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza and find political solutions", Macron urged, underscoring the humanitarian crisis in the region.
France’s stance contrasts sharply with Israel's approach to the conflict, as Netanyahu highlighted Iran’s non-stop supply of arms to its proxies. “Is Iran imposing an arms embargo on Hezbollah, on the Houthis, on Hamas, and on its other proxies? Of course not”, Netanyahu retorted. "This axis of terror stands together. But countries who supposedly oppose this terror axis call for an arms embargo on Israel. What a disgrace!”
Iran’s Influence & Regional Conflict
Netanyahu stressed that Israel is defending itself on multiple fronts, facing simultaneous threats from Gaza, Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. He pointed out that Hezbollah, Hamas, and other militias are receiving direct support from Tehran, which continues to bolster these groups with arms and strategic guidance. The Israeli Prime Minister framed the conflict as part of a broader global fight against extremism, portraying Israel as the defender of civilized nations against terrorism.
"Rest assured, Israel will fight until the battle is won — for our sake and for the sake of peace and security in the world," Netanyahu asserted.
France's Response
In response to Netanyahu's sharp criticism, the French government reiterated its support for Israel’s security while calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon. Macron’s office defended his position, insisting that the call for an arms embargo was made in the interest of de-escalation and humanitarian relief. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot is scheduled to visit Israel on Monday to discuss diplomatic solutions and push for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Netanyahu remained defiant, expressing confidence that Israel would emerge victorious, even without the support of Western leaders. “Israel will win with or without their support”, he declared. "But their shame will continue long after the war is won."
As the Israeli-Palestinian conflict intensifies, Netanyahu's clash with Macron highlights the growing divide between Israel’s military strategy and the international community’s call for restraint. While Israel insists on its right to self-defense, Western leaders, including Macron, are increasingly concerned about the humanitarian toll and are advocating for political solutions rather than continued military escalation.
This growing tension between Israel and its traditional allies could reshape diplomatic relations, particularly as the conflict in Gaza continues to attract global scrutiny.
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