France ‘surprised’ by Israeli divisions over its northern de-escalation proposal

After a very public spat between the Defense and Foreign ministries over France’s stance toward Israel’s war on Hamas, a French official says that “we were surprised to read diverging statements from Israeli authorities on France’s efforts toward de-escalation in the north.”

“We remain ready to work with all relevant actors, including Israel and the United States, to that end,” says the official.

The official adds that his country “has shared Israel’s pain and grief since the October 7 barbaric terrorist attacks.” Forty-six French citizens were killed in the attacks, including two hostages. Another two French citizens are still being held in Gaza.

“France calls once again on Hamas to release all remaining hostages and reaffirms its strong commitment to Israel’s security,” says the official.