Macron Calls for International Coalition Against 'Terrorist Groups in the Region' During Visit to Israel

Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, who is visiting Israel, proposed the formation of an international coalition to combat 'terrorist groups in the region' during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The French President stated that a coalition similar to the international alliance fighting ISIS in Iraq and Syria is necessary to address other threatening groups. Macron's remarks referred to Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the Houthis in Yemen, emphasizing that they 'should not risk war on a new front.' In a press conference with Netanyahu, Macron warned the Islamic Republic, saying: 'I warn Hezbollah, the Iranian regime, the Houthis in Yemen, and all groups threatening Israel in the region not to take risks by opening new fronts.' Speaking alongside Netanyahu in Jerusalem, he cautioned against the dangers of regional conflict, stressing that the fight against Hamas should be 'without mercy' but 'not without rules.' The French President also called for access to humanitarian aid for Gaza citizens and the provision of electricity to hospitals there. Netanyahu held Hamas responsible for civilian casualties but stated they would 'make every effort to avoid civilian casualties.' He declared the destruction of Hamas a condition for ending the war. Thirty French citizens were killed in the Hamas militants' attack on southern Israel on October 7, and nine French citizens are either detained or missing. Macron, in discussions with Isaac Herzog, the President of Israel, prioritized the release of 'all Hamas hostages.' The French President is also set to meet with Mahmoud Abbas, the President of the Palestinian Authority, in Ramallah. The U.S. stated that the UN has no evidence of humanitarian aid diversion in Gaza. Confirmation of the release of two more hostages; Hamas freed two Israeli women. John Kirby stated that Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah. Borrell called for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. The third humanitarian aid convoy has entered the Rafah crossing. Dual citizens have no hope of being able to leave Gaza.