Israel – Palestinian Territories - situation in the Gaza Strip (7 April 2018)
Statement by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs Spokesperson
The crackdown on demonstrators in the Gaza Strip has once again caused the deaths of nine people and injured several hundred others. France reiterates its disapproval of the Israeli army’s indiscriminate shooting. Full light must be shed on these serious events.
France calls on the authorities concerned to show the utmost restraint, and emphasizes that the use of force must be proportionate, in accordance with international humanitarian law, in order to avoid further casualties.
Only a lifting of the restrictions imposed on Gaza, with the necessary safeguards for Israel, will allow the humanitarian crisis to be addressed and an escalation of tension to be prevented.
Beyond this, France remains convinced that the violence can be ended only through the resumption of genuine dialogue, with a view to finally implementing a political solution enabling two states, Israel and Palestine, to live side by side in peace and security.