Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urges all 'civilized nations' to stand firmly with Israel as it battles 'barbaric forces' led by Iran. He calls French President Emmanuel Macron's demand for an arms embargo on Israel 'shameful.'
In a video message released on Saturday, Prime Minister Netanyahu criticized these calls, emphasizing the irony of countries claiming to oppose the terror nexus yet urging an arms ban on Israel.
In swift response, Macron's office issued a clarification, affirming France as a staunch ally of Israel, ready to back Israel's security. They assured standing shoulder to shoulder with Israel should Iran or allies attack.
Netanyahu remarked, 'At a time when Israel is confronting barbaric forces led by Iran, all civilized countries should stand with Israel. Yet, President Macron and some Western leaders seek to impose an arms embargo on Israel. They should be ashamed. Does Iran impose arms prohibitions on Hezbollah, Houthis, Hamas, and its other allies? Absolutely not. The terror axis stands united, while supposed opponents call for sanctions on Israel. How disgraceful!'
Also Read: The Big Question Amidst Iran-Israel Tension! Was Khamenei Meditating or Hiding in a Bunker?
Netanyahu declared Israel is defending against 'the enemies of civilization' across seven theaters. 'We are fighting Hamas in Gaza, confronting those who murdered, raped, beheaded, and burned our people on October 7.' He continued, 'We battle Hezbollah in Lebanon, one of the world's most heavily armed terrorist organizations. They planned a massacre greater than October 7 on our northern border. Rockets have rained on Israeli towns for nearly a year. We fight the Houthis in Yemen and Shiite militias in Iraq and Syria, who've launched hundreds of drones and missile attacks against Israel. We confront militants in Judea and Samaria who try to slay civilians amidst our cities. Lastly, we battle Iran, which fired over 200 ballistic missiles directly at Israel last week and stands behind this multi-front war.'
Netanyahu emphasizes that with or without Western aid, Israel will emerge victorious. He pledges relentless pursuit until victory. 'Let me tell you, Israel will prevail with or without their help, but their shame will remain long after we win the battle. In defending against this barbarity, Israel protects civilizations from the shadow of fanaticism. Rest assured, Israel fights for our peace and global security until war is won.'
Also Read: How Hezbollah, With North Korea's Help, Laid the 'Terror Tunnel' Trap? Israel's Greatest Challenge
Responding to Netanyahu's statement, French President Emmanuel Macron's office emphasized France as Israel's firm friend. According to the Times of Israel, Macron reiterated his commitment to Israel's security. France rallied its forces during Iran's missile aggression, mirroring its actions in April.
Macron personally conveyed to the Iranian President France's unwavering support for Israel. He reiterated France's stance against allowing Iran or its proxies to attack Israel, pledging face-off against any force deploying aggression.
Meanwhile, Macron stressed the urgent need to de-escalate tensions in the region, including an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. 'We must return to diplomatic solutions. France stands as Israel's faithful ally; Netanyahu's harsh words are unrelated to the friendship between France and Israel.' In a video message, Macron called for an immediate ceasefire in both Gaza and Lebanon.
Macron emphasized, 'Immediate ceasefire is crucial in Gaza, akin to Lebanon. We must halt escalating tensions, protect lives, release hostages, and seek necessary political resolutions for the safety and security of Israel and all.'
Also Read: Underground Missile Bases, Airbases, and More... Israel's Targets in Iran?
Earlier, French President Macron advocated halting arms sales to Israel used in Gaza. Speaking to France Inter Radio, Macron noted, 'Our priority is to prevent escalating tensions. Today, we must seek a political solution and halt weapons used in Gaza. France sends no weapons; Lebanon mustn't become another Gaza.'
