Netanyahu condemns Macron for criticizing Gaza aid blockade

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu harshly criticized French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday after Macron denounced Israel's continued blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Netanyahu accused the French leader of siding with what he described as a "murderous Islamist terrorist group" and spreading its propaganda against Israel.

In a strongly worded statement, Netanyahu's office said that Macron was repeating false accusations against Israel and supporting terrorism instead of backing democratic nations in their fight against extremist groups. "Macron is once again demanding that Israel capitulate and reward terrorism," the statement read. "Israel will neither halt its operations nor surrender."

Macron’s remarks came during a televised interview on Tuesday in which he called Israel's actions "unacceptable" and "shameful," particularly the blockade that has been in place since March 2. He highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza, including the lack of water, medicine, and the inability for wounded civilians to leave or doctors to enter the area. Macron expressed frustration with Netanyahu, stating that while he had confronted him, Israel relies on U.S. military support rather than on France.

Humanitarian agencies and the United Nations have repeatedly warned that the blockade could lead to famine in Gaza, already devastated by months of conflict.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu remains firm in his stance. He has rejected Macron’s push to recognize a Palestinian state and emphasized that Israel's military operations aim to achieve all war objectives: securing the release of hostages, dismantling Hamas's capabilities, and preventing future threats from Gaza.

The ongoing war began with Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in 1,218 Israeli deaths, most of them civilians. Out of 251 people kidnapped during the assault, 57 are still held in Gaza, with 34 confirmed dead. Hamas is also holding the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014.

In retaliation, Israel's military campaign has caused at least 52,928 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, figures the United Nations deems credible.