Macron's Diplomatic Mission to Israel Amid Ongoing Conflict

French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Israel amid the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The visit occurs at a critical point as the potential for a ground offensive into Gaza looms. Macron’s trip aims to propose a humanitarian truce and show solidarity with Israel.

A Push for Peace

The French leader’s advisers have stated that Macron’s visit aims to prevent an escalation in tensions, secure the release of hostages, ensure Israel’s security, and advocate for a two-state solution. Before his departure, Macron indicated that he would only undertake the journey if it could be beneficial. While the specifics of the proposals remain undisclosed, Macron’s team suggests the initiative is designed to ensure Israel does not feel isolated in its fight against terrorism.

Meetings with Israeli Leaders

During his visit, Macron will meet with key figures in Israeli politics, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, and opposition leaders Benny Gantz and Yair Lapid. Despite his proactive efforts to engage with the leaders of Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Qatar since the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas militants, Macron’s visit comes behind his American, British, German, and Italian counterparts.

Limited Influence Amid Changing Dynamics

Analysts suggest that Macron’s influence in the region may be limited due to a perceived shift towards a pro-Israel stance in Anglo-American policy. This is in contrast to the traditionally more pro-Arab French approach. Karim Emile Bitar, a foreign policy expert at French think tank IRIS, noted that France’s influence south of the Mediterranean has significantly diminished over time. Bitar also highlighted that France is now seen as no different from other Western countries, which has shocked public opinion in the Arab world.

France’s Stance on Palestinian Rights

French officials dispute claims of bias and maintain that Macron has consistently reaffirmed the rights of Palestinians and advocated for a two-state solution. In addition to meeting with Israeli officials, a meeting with Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas is also expected during Macron’s trip.

Domestic Concerns

Macron’s diplomatic mission is further complicated by the tense situation within France and the potential hostage situation involving French nationals in Gaza. Macron has promised not to abandon any French citizens in the region. His visit is also closely watched at home, where the large Muslim and Jewish communities are on edge following a recent attack linked to the events in Gaza. Macron will need to navigate carefully through the diplomatic landscape of the region, with tensions at home ready to flare up at any misstep.