Antalya: French President Emmanuel Macron on Tuesday emphasized the urgent need to open all humanitarian aid crossings into Gaza, describing it as a "vital necessity" for the civilian population as the humanitarian crisis in the region continues to worsen. Macron underscored this point during a discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to Anadolu Agency, Macron stated on X that he had reaffirmed France's support for Israel's security and its people during his conversation with Netanyahu. He stressed that the release of all hostages remains a top priority. However, Macron highlighted that a ceasefire is the only path to ensuring the release of remaining hostages and alleviating the suffering in Gaza. He noted the dire situation at the El-Arish border, where aid is currently blocked, emphasizing the need for urgent action to allow it to reach civilians.

Macron expressed hope that the coming hours would facilitate the release of more hostages and lead to a political breakthrough. His comments follow a recent statement where he indicated that France might recognize a Palestinian state "in the coming months," potentially during a UN conference in New York in June. Macron's call for mutual recognition between Israel and Arab states sparked a backlash from Yair Netanyahu, son of the Israeli Prime Minister, who criticized Macron on social media.

Despite the backlash, Macron reiterated his focus on achieving a ceasefire, facilitating the release of hostages, ensuring humanitarian aid reaches those in need, and working towards a long-term political solution based on a two-state framework.