France says Trump's Gaza plan poses obstacle to 2-state solution

ISTANBUL

France said on Friday that US President Donald Trump's plan to "take over Gaza" and resettle Palestinians in other countries poses an obstacle to a two-state solution in Palestine.

Responding to journalists' questions at a weekly press briefing, Christophe Lemoine, spokesman for the French Foreign Ministry, emphasized that Trump's plan violates international law and the legitimate claims of Palestinians to remain in their lands, presenting a serious obstacle to the long-standing two-state solution supported by France.

Lemoine pointed out that France quickly reacted to Trump's comments during a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this week.

"These statements constitute a severe violation of both international law and the legitimate claims of Palestinians to stay in their territories. Moreover, they represent a serious hindrance to the two-state solution we have long supported," Lemoine said.

Addressing whether France plans to lead a European initiative against Trump's proposal, Lemoine remarked that while he could not confirm any specific actions, discussions on the issue are expected at the next EU Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in February.

"I cannot confirm this, but I believe it will be discussed at the next EU Foreign Ministers' meeting. I can't predict the outcome, but it will certainly be on the agenda," he added.

Lemoine also reiterated France's unwavering support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the fight against impunity.

He condemned the US decision to impose sanctions on the ICC and stressed France’s commitment to ensuring the court's independence and effectiveness, alongside its European and Rome Statute partners.

Regarding the ICC’s arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Lemoine stated that France would comply with the Rome Statute and would continue to cooperate with the ICC.

He also pointed out that as Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute, there is no immunity for Netanyahu under the court's jurisdiction.

Lemoine clarified that if Netanyahu were present on French soil, a judge would decide whether to cooperate with the ICC in relation to immunity, underscoring the judicial nature of the matter.

On Tuesday, Trump said at a news conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the US would “take over” Gaza and resettle Palestinians elsewhere under an extraordinary redevelopment plan that he claimed could turn the enclave into “the Riviera of the Middle East.”

He doubled down on his proposal Thursday and said no US soldiers would be needed.

The proposal has been widely condemned by world leaders.