Photo: elysee.fr
On Tuesday, 2 January, the President of the French Republic spoke by telephone with Israeli Minister and Chairman of the National Unity Party Benny Gantz.
The French President reiterated France's commitment to Israel's security. He also reiterated that the release of all the hostages, and in particular of our three compatriots, is an absolute priority for France.
As the fighting continues to intensify, the President of the Republic expressed to the Minister his deepest concern over the very high civilian casualties and the absolute humanitarian emergency in Gaza. He reiterated Israel's obligation to protect the civilian population and stressed the urgency of providing the necessary assistance to the people of Gaza, as well as the need to seek a lasting ceasefire with the assistance of all regional and international partners.
Finally, the Head of State and the Minister focused on the political dimension. The President pointed out that statements regarding the forced displacement of Gazans were unacceptable and contradicted the two-state solution, which was the only viable solution for a return to peace and security for all.
France is ready to contribute to this objective and to make it a reality, just as it is trying to prevent a conflagration on the Blue Line by calling on all parties to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
In this context, the President of the Republic stressed the need to avoid any escalatory attitude, especially in Lebanon, and that France would continue to convey these messages to all actors directly or indirectly involved in the region.
elysee.fr/JaV_07
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