Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu fiercely criticized French President Emmanuel Macron over his call for an arms embargo on Israel amid its ongoing military operations. The diplomatic clash unfolded after Macron urged countries to halt arms shipments to Israel, particularly those used in its operations in Gaza. Macron made his appeal during a radio interview on October 5, stating that the priority should be a political solution and suggesting that suspending arms deliveries could contribute to de-escalating the conflict.
Netanyahu wasted no time responding, calling Macron’s remarks a "disgrace" and expressing frustration over what he viewed as hypocrisy. He noted that while Israel is engaged in what he described as a war for survival, defending against militant groups like Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, and Iranian-backed proxies across the region, countries like France are undermining its ability to defend itself.
Netanyahu responds to the French President's call to impose a Western arms embargo on Israel:
"We will win with or without you, but your disgrace will remain long after the victory in the war."
Netanyahu also announced this evening on the Iranian issue:
"It is Israel's right… pic.twitter.com/p4Yz1vYh5B
— MASHIAHIYIM QODESHIM TALMIDIM (@AlvesPedro57992) October 5, 2024
Macron's comments came amid rising international concern over Israel's intensified military actions following Hamas' October 7 assault, which left hundreds of Israeli civilians dead. Macron emphasized the humanitarian toll the conflict is having on the Gaza Strip, where Israeli airstrikes have continued unabated. He argued that continued arms supplies would only prolong the violence.
Netanyahu, however, dismissed these concerns, asserting that Israel was fighting not just for its own survival but for the security of the entire free world. "As Israel fights the forces of barbarism led by Iran, all civilized countries should be standing firmly by Israel’s side," Netanyahu declared. He argued that while Iran continues to arm Hezbollah, Hamas, and other regional proxies, nations calling for an arms embargo on Israel are essentially aiding those who threaten global stability.
Netanyahu : "I decided to call this war #ThereBirthWar" pic.twitter.com/0dI0W7L8Py
— Itay M IDF Veteran 🇮🇱 🇺🇸 (@SINGULARITYclic) October 7, 2024
The Israeli Prime Minister was particularly critical of what he viewed as the West's double standards, questioning why no such embargo has been proposed against Iran or its proxy groups. Netanyahu framed the conflict as part of a broader struggle against an "axis of terror," led by Iran and supported by its militias in Yemen, Syria, and Iraq. He reiterated Israel’s right to defend itself, vowing to continue the fight with or without international support.
The tensions between Israel and France highlight broader divisions within the international community over how to address the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the broader instability in the Middle East. While Israel continues to receive support from some Western nations, including the United States, calls for restraint and humanitarian considerations are growing louder, especially in Europe.
Macron’s stance also triggered backlash within France, where political leaders from across the spectrum weighed in. Some accused the French President of undermining Israel’s legitimate right to self-defense, while others supported his calls for a reassessment of arms sales given the rising civilian casualties in Gaza.
Despite the criticism, Netanyahu remained defiant, expressing confidence that Israel would prevail. "Israel will win, with or without their support," he stated. He added that the shame of those who called for an arms embargo would linger long after the conflict had ended.
