Paris, Aug 13: French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed deep concern over Israel’s plan to expand its military operations and take control of Gaza City, describing it as “a disaster waiting to happen.” Speaking to the media, Macron urged the establishment of an international coalition under a United Nations mandate to stabilize the embattled Gaza Strip, France 24 reported.
“This war must end now with a permanent ceasefire,” Macron said. He described Israel’s plan to take over Gaza City as “a disaster of unprecedented gravity and a headlong rush into permanent war,” highlighting the escalating risks to civilians and regional stability.
Last week, Israel’s security cabinet approved a plan to seize control of Gaza City and expand operations in the Palestinian territory. This move has drawn strong criticism from both domestic voices and the international community, raising concerns about the humanitarian consequences for civilians caught in the conflict, according to France 24.
Macron stressed the human cost of the operation, noting, “The Israeli cabinet’s announcement of an expansion of its operations in Gaza City and the Mawasi camps and for a re-occupation heralds a disaster of unprecedented gravity waiting to happen and a drift towards a never-ending war. Israeli hostages and the people of Gaza will continue to be the primary victims of this strategy.”
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has not immediately responded to requests for comment. During a recent press conference, however, Netanyahu defended Israel’s actions, saying the military is “applying force judiciously” and insisting the operation is necessary to defeat Hamas. “We have about 70 to 75 percent of Gaza under Israeli control, military control, but we have two remaining strongholds: Gaza City and the central camps in Al Mawasi,” he stated, according to France 24.
In response to the unfolding crisis, Macron highlighted the urgent need for a UN-mandated stabilization mission. “The Security Council must now work to establish this mission and give it a mandate,” he said, emphasizing that his teams are coordinating with international partners to implement the plan without delay. The proposed mission would focus on securing the Gaza Strip, protecting civilians, and supporting Palestinian governance structures, although specific details have not been disclosed.
Macron’s call comes on the heels of his recent recognition of a Palestinian state, a move that spurred similar recognitions from countries including the United Kingdom and Canada. By proposing a UN mission, Macron aims to build on this momentum, seeking a framework that could prevent further escalation and provide lasting security and governance in Gaza.
The French president’s statement underscores the urgency of global action to avert a humanitarian catastrophe while promoting a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
