Palestinians transport casualties following what Palestinian health officials said was Israeli fire on people waiting for aid, in Gaza City, in this still picture taken from a video February 29, 2024. REUTERS TV via REUTERS
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his dismay on Friday over the shooting of over 100 Palestinians in Gaza who were seeking humanitarian assistance, urging for transparency and accountability regarding the involvement of Israeli forces in the incident.
According to Gaza health authorities, Israeli forces reportedly opened fire on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of more than 100 Palestinians who were awaiting aid delivery. Israel attributed the casualties to the dense crowds surrounding aid vehicles, stating that some individuals were crushed or struck by vehicles.
In a statement posted on X, President Macron conveyed his profound concern at the situation unfolding in Gaza, denouncing the shootings and emphasizing the necessity for truth, justice, and adherence to international law.
President Macron underscored the urgency of implementing an immediate ceasefire to halt the ongoing conflict. Additionally, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, speaking on France Inter radio, affirmed France’s support for the United Nations’ proposal for an impartial investigation into the incident.
Minister Sejourne characterized the humanitarian conditions in Gaza as dire for several weeks, condemning the recent events as unjustifiable. He emphasized the imperative for Israel to acknowledge and address the gravity of the situation, advocating for an independent inquiry.
Moreover, Minister Sejourne acknowledged the Secretary-General of the United Nations’ call for an independent investigation and expressed France’s intent to endorse such an initiative.
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