Macron and Abbas Call for Urgent Gaza Ceasefire, EU Pledges New Aid Package
RAMALLAH — Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas and French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday jointly called for an “immediate” ceasefire in Gaza, with Macron also proposing a reform of the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza without Hamas after the conflict ends.
In a phone conversation, both leaders stressed the urgent need for a ceasefire, accelerated humanitarian aid, and opposition to the displacement of Palestinians from their land, according to the Wafa news agency. They reaffirmed their commitment to a two-state solution based on international law and called for the Palestinian Authority to take responsibility in Gaza after the war.
Macron, in a post on social media, emphasized that “France is fully mobilized for the liberation of all hostages, a return to a lasting ceasefire, and immediate humanitarian access to Gaza.” He further advocated for a reform of the Palestinian Authority, suggesting that it should govern Gaza post-conflict while sidelining Hamas. “We must establish a framework for the future, disarm Hamas, and redefine credible governance,” Macron stated.
While nearly 150 countries recognize Palestine as a state, France would be a significant European power to formally do so, a shift that could strain relations with Israel, which opposes such actions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Macron’s stance, stating that supporting the creation of a Palestinian state would harm Israel’s security. In response, the Palestinian foreign ministry condemned Netanyahu’s remarks, defending Macron’s position.
EU Announces New Aid for Palestinians
The European Union unveiled a new financial support package for the Palestinians, amounting to 1.6 billion euros ($1.8 billion) over three years. This new funding, aimed at stabilizing the West Bank and Gaza, will enhance the Palestinian Authority’s capacity to meet the needs of the people and prepare for the possibility of assuming control over Gaza after the conflict, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced.
Stalemate in Ceasefire Talks
In Cairo, recent discussions aimed at restoring the failed Gaza ceasefire ended without any breakthrough. Palestinian and Egyptian sources reported that while Hamas remained firm in its demand for an end to the war before agreeing to any ceasefire, it showed some flexibility in negotiations concerning the release of prisoners. Hamas, led by Gaza Chief Khalil Al-Hayya, indicated it might free more prisoners in exchange for the release of Palestinians held by Israel, but it insisted on guarantees before extending the truce.
Israel, which resumed military operations in Gaza after the breakdown of a ceasefire in January, reiterated that the war will continue until Hamas is dismantled. Hamas rejected any proposal calling for it to disarm.
