France was among several countries on Friday to criticize the Israeli government’s plans to take control of Gaza City.
France “condemns in the strongest terms” the Israeli government’s war expansion plan, which would “in no way” contribute to the security of Israelis, including the hostages in Gaza, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a Friday press release.
“These actions would constitute further serious violations of international law and lead to an absolute stalemate. They would undermine the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinians to live in peace in a viable, sovereign, and contiguous state, and pose a threat to regional stability,” the ministry said.
Ireland: Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, known as the Taoiseach, said Ireland “unreservedly condemns” Israel’s plans, and called for a “peaceful resolution on the basis of a two-state solution.”
“This shows a complete disregard for international law and will have catastrophic consequences for the civilian population of Gaza,” Martin said in a statement.
Ireland formally recognized Palestinian statehood in May 2024 and has held a long-standing position of solidarity with the Palestinian cause.
Canada: Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada believes the decision is the “wrong” move for Israel, will not contribute to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and “is going to put the lives of the hostages at greater risk.”
Carney joined France and Britain last month in announcing plans to recognize a Palestinian state in September.
