PARIS, France: French President Emmanuel Macron held discussions on Tuesday with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Qatar’s Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, as reported by Macron’s office.
France, as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, has a vested interest in the conflict, especially given its significant Jewish and Muslim populations. The conflict’s direct impact on France was underscored by the death of French hostages during Hamas attacks on October 7 last year.
Macron condemned recent Israeli air strikes that targeted UN schools and displaced citizens in the Al-Maghazi refugee camp, which resulted in a substantial number of civilian casualties. He stressed France’s demand for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas. The conflict also threatens to escalate along the Lebanese border, an area where France retains influence due to its history as Lebanon’s former colonial power.
Additionally, Macron acknowledged Qatar’s crucial role as a mediator. In January, Qatar and France had successfully brokered a deal with Israel and Hamas to deliver urgent medication to Israeli hostages. Macron’s discussions with the leaders aimed at addressing these humanitarian concerns and preventing further escalation of the conflict.
The talks reflect France’s commitment to leveraging its diplomatic relationships to promote stability in the region.
