France’s Macron suggests expanding coalition to combat Hamas
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – French President Emmanuel Macron, during his visit to Israel, has suggested expanding the Global Coalition against Islamic State (ISIS) to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
Macron visited Israel on Tuesday to express France’s full solidarity with Israel after Oct.7 attacks.
Macron, speaking after talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, said that countries fighting ISIS “should also fight against Hamas.”
In Oct.7, Hamas launched coordinated attacks from Gaza Strip onto bordering areas in Israel, resulting in approximately 1,400 Israeli casualties. In response, Israel is conducting airstrikes, causing over 5,700 Palestinian casualties so far. The conflict between the two sides continues to escalate.
Speaking alongside Netanyahu, the French president emphasized that both France and Israel consider terrorism as a common enemy. He expressed this view while standing alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Expressing readiness to participate in the anti-ISIS Coalition, which operates in Iraq and Syria, Macron told reports “France is ready for the international coalition against Daesh in which we are taking part in operations in Iraq and Syria to also fight against Hamas.”
He called for a strong resumption of the Middle East peace process, emphasizing the importance of addressing the Palestinian cause with reason. He highlighted the need for a security-oriented and unwavering response from Israel towards terrorist groups, while also considering political aspects for regional stability.
Some Western powers worry that letting Israel handle Hamas alone could lead to a larger regional conflict, affecting European capitals.