Istanbul, 19 June (H.S.):

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to demonstrate responsibility and restraint, saying he does not agree with Israel's policies in Gaza, the West Bank, and southern Lebanon.

According to Türkiye's state-run Anadolu Agency, citing Macron's interview with French television channel France 2 in Évian, the French President strongly criticised the construction of new settlements and other Israeli actions in the West Bank, describing them as completely unacceptable. He said such policies are fuelling resentment and violence in the region while undermining ongoing efforts to achieve peace.

Macron also said that the agreement reached between the United States and Iran was finalised during the closing phase of the recent G7 Summit. Rejecting the perception that the agreement represented Iran's surrender, he stated that although several of Iran's military capabilities had been weakened, the next 60 days of negotiations would require serious discussions on key issues.

He further reiterated that France and the United Kingdom stand ready to cooperate in ensuring that the Strait of Hormuz remains secure and open for international navigation.

The French President also said that Paris is prepared to participate in any potential negotiations concerning Iran's nuclear programme. In addition, he expressed France's willingness to assist the Lebanese Armed Forces in establishing effective control over various parts of the country.

Turning to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Macron praised Ukraine's resilience, saying the country has surprised the world through its courage, innovation, and military production capabilities.

He expressed hope that increasing pressure on Russia could encourage Moscow to return to the negotiating table. Macron also welcomed the efforts made by U.S. President Donald Trump to facilitate a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar