“Our position is clear, it is possible to be in solidarity with Israelis and Palestinians” – Libération

The Minister of Foreign Affairs defends French policy in the Middle East and underlines the need for a “lasting and sustained truce” necessary for the implementation on the ground of a political process.

For the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, France displays a “clear position from the beginning” of the conflict between Israel and Hamas by asserting that it “it is possible to be in solidarity with Israelis and Palestinians at the same time” and insisting on the political perspective alone “viable”, that of two States.

Let’s talk about the Middle East, where are we? Do you have any information on the French hostages?

This is the first priority and it is normal: France defends its fellow citizens. I remind you that forty of our people were murdered in the attacks of October 7 and that eight French people are missing, including confirmed hostages, including children. We are in almost permanent contact with the states leading the negotiations, mainly Israel and Qatar. But also other partners involved such as the United States and Egypt.

Where are these negotiations?

Obviously I can’t say much. We demand the immediate, unconditional release of the hostages. The hope of such a release animates us, but I want to remain cautious because even if things have been able to move forward, as long as an agreement is not completely finalized, we must remain cautious. We are in constant contact with the families I met when I went to