Macron set to press for halting of illegal settlements in occupied territories on Israel visit

By Feiza Ben Mohamed

NICE, France (AA) - French President Emmanuel Macron will discuss the need to stop the establishment of illegal settlements in occupied territories, during his visit to Israel on Tuesday, the French presidency said on Monday.

In a statement, the presidency said that Macron will talk about the reopening of a political perspective and “what is necessary for the creation of a Palestinian State.”

Promoting "peaceful and secure" coexistence for both states, it said that Macron will hold discussions with Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Macron's visit will demonstrate France’s solidarity with Israel, but Paris also seeks to prevent a "dangerous" escalation in the Middle East and calls for a humanitarian truce that “gives enough space to a political scenario that leads to a cease-fire.”

It said that the release of hostages is a top priority for the French president, without specifying the number of missing French citizens.

Regarding the humanitarian aspect, the presidency said, France calls for increased aid, particularly to Gaza, and underscores that Israel's response should align with the standards of law-abiding states.

Macron is also expected to exchange views with his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the Palestinian Authority.