Paris, Aug 13 – French President Emmanuel Macron has issued a stern warning about Israel’s plan to expand its military operations in Gaza, describing it as a “disaster waiting to happen.” Speaking on the escalating conflict, Macron called for the immediate establishment of an international coalition under a United Nations mandate to stabilise the embattled Palestinian territory, according to France 24.
“This war must end now with a permanent ceasefire,” Macron said in a statement. He described Israel’s proposed operation to take control of Gaza City as “a disaster of unprecedented gravity” and warned that it risked plunging the region into a cycle of permanent conflict.
Last week, Israel’s security cabinet approved a plan to seize control of Gaza City, extending its military presence into a region already devastated by months of conflict. The move has drawn strong criticism both domestically and from the international community, as concerns grow over the humanitarian impact on Gaza’s civilian population.
Macron emphasised the human cost of the operation, saying, “Israeli hostages and the people of Gaza will continue to be the primary victims of this strategy.” He described the expansion of operations in Gaza City and the surrounding Mawasi camps as a path that could lead to a “never-ending war” if unchecked.
Addressing the situation from Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his government’s actions. “Israel has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas,” Netanyahu said during a press conference. He noted that Israel already has military control over approximately 70 to 75 percent of Gaza, with the remaining strongholds in Gaza City and the central camps in Al Mawasi still under Hamas influence. Netanyahu described Israel’s use of force as “judicious,” despite widespread international criticism.
Macron’s call for a UN-led mission aims to mitigate the humanitarian crisis and provide a framework for stabilisation. “The Security Council must now work to establish this mission and give it a mandate,” he said, adding that France would immediately coordinate with international partners to make this a reality. The proposed mission would focus on securing Gaza, protecting civilians, and supporting Palestinian governance structures, though details of its implementation remain under discussion.
The proposal builds on Macron’s recent recognition of a Palestinian state, which has sparked similar recognitions by countries including the United Kingdom and Canada. By leveraging international cooperation, Macron hopes to create a framework that not only stabilises Gaza but also prevents further escalation of violence in the region.
