Israel responds angrily to French President Emmanuel Macron’s remarks at the United Nations concerning the West Bank, where Israel says it is conducting actions it says are necessary amid security threats. According to multiple outlets, Macron criticises Israeli actions in the territory and also argues that Hamas is not operating in areas associated with the Palestinian Authority.
Israeli officials, including the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, publicly reject Macron’s characterisation. The response describes Macron’s comments as “grotesque absurdity” and says the French president’s framing is incorrect. Outlets differ mainly in how much they quote or attribute particular phrasing, but they agree on the core dispute: Macron’s UN statements challenge Israel’s conduct in the West Bank and his view on Hamas’ presence and activity there prompts an immediate rebuttal from Israel.
The exchanges reflect broader tensions between Israel and European governments over the conflict, humanitarian concerns, and differing assessments of who controls and operates in West Bank areas. While Macron’s remarks focus on Israel’s actions and Hamas’ alleged limited role, Israel’s reply focuses on contesting the underlying claims and disputing the characterisation of the security situation.
