Israel will win with or without their support" – Netanyahu rebukes Macron’s call to halt arms deliveries

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly criticized French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent call to stop arms deliveries to Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Macron, speaking on France Inter radio, urged for a political resolution, stating that “the priority is that we return to a political solution, that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza.”

During a summit in Paris, Macron also expressed concern over Israel’s military escalation, particularly its decision to send ground troops into Lebanon. He emphasized the need to prevent Lebanon from becoming “a new Gaza” and pushed for a ceasefire to avoid further escalation.

Netanyahu responded in a video statement, condemning Macron and other Western leaders who have supported what he called an arms embargo against Israel. “Shame on them,” Netanyahu declared, asserting Israel’s resolve, “Israel will win with or without their support.”

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Netanyahu accused those not backing Israel of empowering Iran and its allies, stressing that the world should be united in support of Israel’s fight against “the forces of barbarism led by Iran.” He reiterated that Israel would continue its defense efforts, regardless of external opposition.

Macron, while reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself, expressed concern that continued military action risks fueling “hatred” and destabilizing the region. He expressed regret over Israel’s ground operations in Lebanon, though his office later emphasized that France remains a “steadfast friend of Israel.”

The disagreement reflects broader tensions between Israel and some of its Western allies as the conflict in Gaza and Lebanon intensifies, raising concerns over the long-term stability of the region.