Daijiworld Media Network – Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Apr 14: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized French president Emmanuel Macron over his recent remarks suggesting that France could recognize a Palestinian state within months. Netanyahu, in an assertive statement on Sunday, condemned Macron for promoting the idea of a Palestinian state, describing it as a threat to Israel’s existence. He further emphasized that such a state would likely be rooted in the destruction of Israel.
Macron’s comments came during an interview on France 5 television, where he mentioned the possibility of France recognizing Palestine during a United Nations peace conference scheduled for June. The French President expressed hopes that this move would spark a broader peace initiative in the region, which he said could ultimately lead to mutual recognition between Israel and Arab nations.
In response, Netanyahu strongly rejected the idea, accusing Palestinian leaders of staying silent after the horrific Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023, which he referred to as ‘the worst massacre of Jews since the Holocaust.’ Netanyahu stressed that Israel would not compromise its existence for what he termed ‘illusions detached from reality,’ and criticized Macron for promoting a policy he believes would undermine Israel's security.
Netanyahu’s son, Yair Netanyahu, also weighed in, expressing anger on social media by accusing France of hypocrisy, while calling for independence for several French territories, including Corsica and French Polynesia. He also voiced his frustration over France’s alleged “neo-imperialism” in West Africa.
Macron later attempted to clarify his comments, reiterating his commitment to the legitimate rights of both Palestinians and Israelis to live in peace and security. He emphasized that his support for a Palestinian state was contingent on it not being governed by Hamas, the militant group that controls Gaza.
The French president also reiterated that France’s recognition of Palestine was intended to strengthen peace efforts and to stand against adversaries like Iran, who challenge Israel’s right to exist.