Macron aims to present a global counterbalance to Trump’s backing of Israel’s conflict in Gaza and to increase the pressure for peace. Comparisons are being drawn to France’s stance under Jacques Chirac against the U.S. during the 2003 Iraq invasion, which was also articulated in a notable speech at the U.N.
Domestically, European leaders are aware of the public anger about the war, which grows as the Gaza death toll rises. YouGov has reported historically low public support for Israel in Western Europe.
However, Macron’s influence seems limited. Even French officials acknowledge that his actions in New York will not immediately impact the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza as Israeli tanks advance. Neither Israel nor the U.S. is likely to be swayed by Macron.
Moreover, Macron’s effort to showcase a united front highlights Western Europe’s disunity, particularly as EU and NATO nations tread carefully around Trump due to the Ukraine war.
Germany, Italy, Greece, and the Netherlands are not participating. Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz is focused on more urgent domestic issues and will not attend. Italy’s Giorgia Meloni has stated she does not support recognizing a Palestinian state “prior to establishing it,” and will arrive the day after Macron’s event.
A European diplomat anonymously noted that the gamble was that “Israel would give some ground” as international pressure increased against it.
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