Macron Calls For Avoidance Of Regional Escalation After Netanyahu Talks

Speaking on a visit to Jerusalem, French President Emmanuel Macron states that "We have to avoid regional escalation of violence...[We] call on Hezbollah, Iran not to take [the] risk of regional escalation." So far, there has been little evidence of a build up in southern Lebanon that would indicate any major action from Hezbollah. Several rocket and drone strikes have been reported in recent weeks, as have small numbers of militants crossing the border, but not the opening of a second front that would risk a wider conflagration. However, given the fluid situation on the ground and the extreme heightened tensions the worst-case scenario of an Israel-Hezbollah conflict that draws in other actors cannot be ruled out.

• Macron: the "Fight against terrorism must be without mercy, but not without rules." France has been one of the European countries experiencing a notable uptick in social tensions as a result of the conflict. Macron: "I propose that the coalition against Islamic State also fights Hamas."
• Macron: "Stability of Middle East will only be possible if Israel also allows for political approach to the conflict with Palestinians." The French president also confirms that he will meet with Palestinian Authority head Mahmoud Abbas later on today in Ramallah.
• Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, speaking alongside Macron, states that Hamas is a "test for the West and civilization", adding that "If Hezbollah intervenes [the] devastation will be unimaginable."