Rabat – French President Emmanuel Macron said yesterday, Tuesday, that nothing justifies the death toll of civilians in the Gaza Strip, stressing the need to stop the war.
This came in a speech by Macron, before members of the Moroccan Parliament in both chambers (deputies and advisors), commenting on the genocide that Israel has been committing for more than a year against the Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
On Monday, Macron began a three-day official visit to Morocco, during which he attended the signing of bilateral agreements with King Mohammed VI.
Macron said: “The Middle East lives in a maze… and nothing justifies this large death toll of civilians in Gaza.”
He continued: “Therefore, there must be a ceasefire in Gaza, and we have called for this since last November, in order to free the (Israeli) hostages, protect the population, and allow humanitarian aid to reach the Gaza Strip.”
He added: “In Lebanon, there must be a ceasefire and a ceasefire for military actions as well, and we are working on that in cooperation with American partners and others.”
Macron added: “According to our vision of the development of events, I requested a halt to military exports in order to stop the war in Lebanon and Gaza.”
He considered that “France supports the Palestinians, Lebanese and Israelis to obtain their security to live in peace, and for all displaced persons to return to live in their homes.”
After clashes with Lebanese factions in Lebanon, which began after Israel launched a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, resulting in the killing and wounding of more than 144,000 Palestinians, Tel Aviv has expanded the scope of genocide since last September 23 to include most areas of Lebanon, including It invaded the capital, Beirut, through air strikes, and also began a ground invasion in its south.
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**Interview with Dr. Sarah El-Amin, Middle Eastern Affairs Expert**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El-Amin. President Macron has recently emphasized that nothing justifies civilian casualties in the Gaza Strip and called for an immediate end to the conflict. What are your thoughts on his statement?
**Dr. El-Amin:** Thank you for having me. President Macron’s remarks highlight an essential aspect of wartime ethics—the protection of civilians. In conflicts like the one in Gaza, it’s crucial to remember that civilians often bear the brunt of military actions. His call to stop the war is a necessary appeal for humanity in the face of escalating violence.
**Editor:** Macron’s speech comes amid rising tensions and significant casualties in the region. How do you think international leaders can effectively intervene in such situations without escalating conflicts further?
**Dr. El-Amin:** International leaders must engage in diplomacy that prioritizes humanitarian needs. This includes offering mediating roles, urging for ceasefires, and providing humanitarian aid. Moreover, it’s essential for global powers to leverage diplomatic channels to encourage a lasting peace process that addresses the root causes of the conflict, rather than just reacting to its symptoms.
**Editor:** There’s often debate about the balance between military actions and civilian safety. What can be done to ensure that military operations prioritize civilian protection?
**Dr. El-Amin:** It starts with strict adherence to international humanitarian law. Militaries must implement and follow protocols for protecting non-combatants, including advance warnings before attacks in civilian areas. Robust accountability measures should be in place to ensure that any violations result in consequences. Additionally, public pressure from the international community can play a significant role in encouraging these practices.
**Editor:** Macron’s remarks were directed at the broader context of the war. What steps do you think are necessary to work toward a long-term resolution in Gaza?
**Dr. El-Amin:** A long-term resolution will require inclusive dialogue among all parties involved, including direct engagement with those marginalized in peace talks. It’s important to create a framework that addresses security concerns while also acknowledging the humanitarian rights of the Palestinian people. Invested international engagement, support for rebuilding efforts, and promoting mutual recognition and respect between communities could enable a sustainable peace.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. El-Amin, for sharing your insights on this critical issue.
**Dr. El-Amin:** Thank you for having me. It’s imperative we continue these conversations to foster understanding and work toward a peaceful resolution.