Israel accuses Macron: ‘Crusade against the Jewish state’

Diplomatic tension after French president’s comments on Gaza. Berlin considers arms supplies based on humanitarian situation

Israel has harshly criticised French President Emmanuel Macron, accusing him of launching a ‘crusade against the Jewish state’. The reaction comes after the Élysée Palace chief called on European countries to take a ‘tougher stance’ towards Tel Aviv if the humanitarian crisis in Gaza shows no signs of improvement.

‘There is no humanitarian blockade. This is a blatant lie,’ said the Israeli Foreign Ministry, claiming to have facilitated the entry of aid into the Palestinian enclave. In the same statement, Macron is accused of wanting to ‘reward jihadist terrorists with a Palestinian state,’ adding provocatively: ‘There is no doubt that his national holiday will be 7 October.’

Meanwhile, Germany is also taking a more cautious stance towards Israel. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said in an interview with the Sueddeutsche Zeitung that Berlin will consider approving new arms deliveries based on the humanitarian situation in Gaza. ‘We are asking ourselves whether what is happening is compatible with international law,’ he explained, stressing that any future decision will take this analysis into account.

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