Israel hits out at French Prez Macron’s stance on Palestinian state

Protest in Tel Aviv on Thursday, calling for a stop to the war Gaza, and for the release of Israeli hostages. PIC/AFP

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and several senior Israeli leaders strongly condemned French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement on Thursday to recognise a Palestinian state, warning that the move rewards terrorism and threatens Israel's security, The Jerusalem Post reported.

Netanyahu issued a sharp statement, saying, "Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy, just as Gaza became. A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel - not to live in peace beside it. Let's be clear: the Palestinians do not seek a state alongside Israel; they seek a state instead of Israel."

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich responded on X, stating: "I thank President Emmanuel Macron for providing an additional - and most compelling - reason to finally implement Israeli sovereignty over the historic regions of Judea and Samaria, and to put an end once and for all to the dangerous illusion of a terrorist Palestinian state in the heart of Israel."

Defence Minister Israel Katz echoed similar criticism, while Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana lashed out, saying: "Macron just awarded Hamas a prize for committing the October 7 massacre. He will be remembered as a collaborator with evil. I'm ashamed to have met this man. I love France. It deserves more courageous leadership."

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