Netanyahu, Gantz Slam Macron's UN Remarks on Hamas in West Bank

French President Emmanuel Macron stated at the UN on Tuesday that Hamas does not operate in the West Bank, questioning Israel's actions there. His remarks sparked strong criticism from Israeli leaders.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vehemently condemned Macron's comments, highlighting the recent murder of French-Israeli citizen Natanel Shokron, a father of six, by a Hamas operative in the West Bank just two days prior, on the eve of Yom Kippur. Netanyahu posted on social media that Hamas operatives carry out attacks against Jews almost daily in the West Bank, citing Shokron's last words to his son to flee. "The absurd absurdity of Emmanuel Macron's statement is astonishing," Netanyahu wrote.

MK Gadi Eisenkot, a former IDF chief of staff and current opposition leader, also criticized Macron, calling his statement "extremely detached from the reality on the ground." Eisenkot, who previously commanded forces in the West Bank, asserted his familiarity with Hamas's activities in the region. He added that the fight against terror is not subject to negotiation and that international hypocrisy at the expense of Israeli citizens' security is unacceptable.

Shokron was murdered near the settlement of Neve Tzuf when a Hamas-affiliated terrorist opened fire on his vehicle. The terrorist was wounded by IDF fire, fled to a hospital in Ramallah, and was later arrested by Israeli forces. Prime Minister Netanyahu is scheduled to travel to New York for the UN General Assembly, where he is expected to address the threats from Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.