New york: France's foreign minister has strongly condemned recent attacks on civilians in Gaza, particularly those occurring at food distribution sites. Jean-Noel Barrot addressed a high-level international conference at the United Nations, expressing that targeting civilians, especially women and children seeking food aid, is "unacceptable."

According to Anadolu Agency, Barrot's remarks were made in the presence of his Saudi counterpart at the opening of the international conference focused on advancing a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and promoting a two-state solution. He emphasized that the significant attendance at the conference indicates a growing international consensus to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza and pursue a political path forward.

Barrot declared the conference to be a potential turning point, urging participants to focus on transitioning from the end of the war in Gaza to resolving the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He reiterated that a political two-state solution is essential to fulfilling the legitimate aspirations of both Palestinians and Israelis for peace and security.

Highlighting the urgency of the situation, Barrot criticized the accelerated expansion of Israeli settlements in the West Bank. He stressed the importance of preserving the prospects for a viable Palestinian state through the implementation of concrete measures. To support diplomatic efforts, he highlighted the role of eight international working groups established under the conference framework, tasked with identifying concrete contributions in political, security, economic, and humanitarian areas to make the two-state solution a reality.

Barrot concluded by stating, "This war has lasted too long and must end," calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire to halt the suffering of civilians in Gaza.