French President Emmanuel Macron called on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday to resume negotiations with Hamas to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and release hostages held by the Palestinian movement, according to a statement from the Elysee Palace.
The French presidency noted that Macron “urged” Netanyahu “in a phone call” to “resume negotiations, which could lead to the release of hostages and the protection of civilians, through a ceasefire and regional de-escalation.”
The statement added that the French president “reminded us of our priority to release all hostages.”
France fully supports ongoing mediation efforts. It is no longer acceptable to subject the fate of Gaza Palestinians to further terrorist activities by Hamas, and Israeli operations must cease,” the Elysee statement said.
The statement mentioned that Macron reiterated his strong opposition to a possible Israeli attack on Rafah and the urgent need to ensure the entry of large quantities of humanitarian aid through all crossings into the Gaza Strip.
