French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to “show responsibility and rationality,” sharply criticizing Israel’s policies in Gaza, the occupied West Bank and southern Lebanon while warning that continued tensions risk fueling regional instability.
Speaking to France 2 television following the G7 summit, Macron condemned the expansion of Israeli settlements and what he described as unacceptable actions in the West Bank, arguing that such measures are deepening resentment and violence across the region.
The French leader also addressed developments surrounding Iran, saying a US-Iran agreement was finalized in the closing hours of the G7 summit. Rejecting claims that Tehran had capitulated, Macron noted that while much of Iran’s military capacity had been weakened, key issues remain unresolved and are expected to be discussed in negotiations over the coming weeks.
Macron said France and the United Kingdom stand ready to help secure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and reiterated Paris’ willingness to participate in future talks on Iran’s nuclear program.
On Lebanon, Macron said France would continue supporting efforts to strengthen the Lebanese army and help it reestablish authority across the country’s territory.
Turning to Ukraine, the French president praised Kyiv’s resilience since the start of the war, highlighting the country’s military innovation and ability to sustain resistance under difficult conditions.
Macron also said he hopes to intensify pressure on Russia to encourage a return to negotiations and welcomed what he described as progress in diplomatic efforts led by US President Donald Trump aimed at advancing discussions over the conflict.
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