War between Israel and Hamas: France will continue to “try to avoid fire,” says Catherine Colonna

While visiting Israel, Catherine Colonna performed this Sunday evening. France will continue “its efforts to prevent a fire” in the Middle East, where the war between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas is intensifying, the French foreign minister assured.

“The situation is complex and alarming. This is serious,” said Catherine Colonna, calling for accountability of all leaders, during a press statement following her visit to Israel. She also announced that the number of French people killed in “terrorist attacks” had risen further: 19 dead and 13 missing.

“Israel has endured the unspeakable,” she added, insisting that “nothing justifies terrorism.” “There can be no justification or explanation” and Israel has the right to defend itself “against the enormity of Hamas.” More than 1,400 people were killed in the Oct. 7 attack by Islamist militants in Israel, which also captured 126 people, according to the latest figures provided by Israeli officials.

“Hamas is harming Palestinians”

But Israel’s response to Hamas “must be firm, decisive and fair,” Katherine Colonna stressed. She also reaffirmed the need for Israel, which is besieging the territory, to respect international and humanitarian law.

More than 2,600 people have been killed in Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip, an area of ​​2.4 million people according to local authorities, and nearly a million people have been forced from their homes in a week, the United Nations agency for Palestine refugees said on Sunday ( UNRWA). .

“It is important that the United Nations is able to deliver food and essential supplies to the southern Gaza Strip,” she added. “The water is partially distributed, this is the first step.” “Let’s make no mistake,” she said, but “it’s important to remember that Hamas is harming the Palestinians,” believing the organization is taking the Palestinian population “hostage.” The minister will leave for Egypt in the evening and leave for Lebanon on Monday.