Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticised French President Emmanuel Macron on Saturday for suggesting that arms shipments to Israel, used in the Gaza conflict, should be stopped as part of a broader push for a political solution.
In a pre-recorded video released by his office, Netanyahu expressed his disapproval, stating, “Shame on them,” referring to Macron and other Western leaders advocating for what he described as an arms embargo on Israel. He further asserted, “Israel will win with or without their support,” calling the call for an embargo a disgrace.
“As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilized countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side. Yet President Macron and some other western leaders are now calling for an arms embargo against Israel. Shame on them,” Netanyahu said.
Earlier, Macron had told France Inter radio that the priority was “to return to a political solution” and to halt the use of arms in Gaza, clarifying that France doesn’t ship weapons to Israel. He also emphasised the importance of avoiding further escalation, particularly in Lebanon, stating, “The Lebanese people must not be sacrificed, Lebanon cannot become another Gaza.”
“The axis of terror stands together. But countries who supposedly oppose this [axis] call for an arms embargo on Israel. What a disgrace. Well let me tell you this Israel will win with or without their support but their shame will continue long after the war is won,” Netanyahu said.
“For in defending ourselves against this barbarism, Israel is defending civilizations against those who seek to impose a dark age of fanatisicim on all of us.”
While France is not a major supplier of weapons to Israel, it shipped military equipment worth 30 million euros ($33 million) last year, according to the French defence ministry’s annual arms exports report. Macron’s comments came as French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot embarked on a four-day Middle East visit, with the final stop in Israel as Paris seeks to contribute to diplomatic efforts in the region.
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