France is one of the nations that support Israel. But recently France took a surprising step. This nation voted for a UN resolution that demands Israel end its occupation of Gaza and the West Bank within a year. This decision of France seem that it changed its position in a conflict and became an ally of Ireland and Spain. These countries severely criticize Israel’s action in the Gaza war.
The United Nations resolution is based on the ruling by the ICJ. The International Court of Justice said that Israel’s presence in Palestine territories is illegal. However, few nations such as Israel, and the United States refused this calling.
At the same time, the United Kingdom chose not to vote in favor or against Israel. France’s vote represents that this nation wants to follow international laws and the need for accountability in the Israel-Palestinian conflict. By voting against Israel, France explores its willingness and challenge its closest ally. Furthermore, it also shows a more balanced approach to the situation in the region.
Nicolas de Riviere, France’s permanent UN representative said,
“ As the court stated in its advisory opinion of July 2024, the colonization of the Palestinian territories, including East Jerusalem, constitutes a violation of international law.”
Nations must not stand in favor of Israel. Because the occupation of Palestine territory is illegal. France also refuses to accept that Israel’s presence is legal.
At the same time, France also wants Israel’s security. But continued settlement building is the big complexity that blocks the two-state solution. This solution is the only way that bring peace across the world.
France believes that Palestine should restart the peace talks and move towards a resolution.
France’s recent votes at the UN show a consistent stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. A French international relations expert, Barah Mikhail said that France has always been against Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories. This is because France not only follows international laws but also wants to maintain a balanced approach both for Palestine and Israel.
In January France promised to support the decision of ICJ, no matter what the resolution is. In February France showed disappointment when the United States did not move to work on a plan related to a ceasefire in Gaza. After this in April and May, France continuously support the decision of ICJ. According to this nation, Palestine has the right to live independently without any involvement from other nations.
All of these France’s actions represent that it plays an active role in the peace process. Also it shows that nation support those who are in the right.
The balancing act of France
France’s voting action shows that this nation has a clear opinion about the Israel-Palestine conflict. In 1967, President Charles de Gaulle warned that Israel’s presence in Palestine was an act of terrorism. In the 1980s, President François Mitterrand recognized Palestinian statehood, and Jacques Chirac was actively involved in peace talks.
Furthermore, France’s decision to stand in favor of the resolution also faced criticism from Israel. France supports the two-state solution that is right for both nations Israel and Palestine. This solution considered both Israeli security and Palestinian rights.
The North Africa and Middle East department, known as the “Arab street,” has been vital in maintaining this position, even during more pro-Israel administrations. Recently, tensions have arisen between President Macron and the diplomatic corps over his approach to the conflict, highlighting ongoing complexities in France’s foreign policy.
Why France’s influence and credibility is under danger?
The French diplomats criticized President Emmanuel Macron’s approach to the Israel-Hamas war. They believe that Macron’s pro-Israel approach is not aligned with international laws and marks a significant departure from France’s traditional balanced relations with the Arab world.
The ambassador from the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) was disappointed with this shift. They said that Macron’s position is misunderstood in the region and harms France’s stability and credibility.
The memo highlights that France’s image among the Arab nations is not good just because of Macron’s choice. The recent suggestion of Macron also surprised many diplomats. He suggests adding Hamas to the anti-Isis coalition. They felt left out of this important conversation.
