MACRON CHALLENGES WORLD LEADERS OVER PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD AND WEST BANK
French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a strongly worded address to the United Nations General Assembly, focusing on the situation in Palestine, Gaza and the West Bank
Macron questioned whether the recognition of a Palestinian state by several countries over the past year had translated into meaningful action on the ground.
«“A year ago, in this very assembly, several dozen countries recognized Palestine. You recognized it on paper, but look at the reality of the situation. What value do our credibility and our reputation have if we are unable to do anything about the situation in Gaza?”»
Macron also accused Israel of violating international law and pointed to the situation in the occupied West Bank.
«“Look at what is happening in the West Bank. Day after day, we see violations. What is the justification? Hamas has never operated in the West Bank.”»
He said the international community must uphold what he described as the Palestinian people’s legitimate right to existence and statehood.
«“We need to respect the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, particularly their right to exist and to have a state. This is an essential condition for the security of the Israeli people, today and in the future.”»
Macron’s remarks came amid continued international debate over Palestinian statehood, the Gaza conflict and the future of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.