Israeli defence minister slams French president over Hezbollah comments

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has taken a firm stance against French President Emmanuel Macron's recent remarks regarding the principles of a trilateral contact group aimed at addressing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah.

Gallant's criticism stems from Macron's statement affirming France's agreement with the United States on the framework for a trilateral contact group, which would also involve Israel. However, Gallant expressed outrage over what he perceives as France's disregard for Israel's security concerns, particularly in light of ongoing conflict with Hamas, Mignews.com reports.

"At a time when the State of Israel is engaged in what we consider the most just war in its history, France's apparent dismissal of Hamas' atrocities against Jewish civilians is deeply troubling," Gallant asserted, referring to the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas militants.

"We cannot accept France's involvement in security matters on our northern border if they continue to ignore the threats posed by terrorist organizations targeting Israeli civilians."