Israel / Palestinian Territories (June 26, 2023)

France expresses its deep concern over worsening tensions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

France utterly condemns all attacks targeting civilians, and particularly the terrorist acts on June 20 that killed four Israeli civilians.

France equally condemns settler violence against civilians and their property. This violence is unacceptable and must stop. France calls on the Israeli authorities to bring its perpetrators to justice, as they must be held accountable for their actions by the appropriate judicial authorities.

The settlements are illegal under international law. They fuel tensions on the ground and are a major obstacle to peace.

By approving new construction projects in the Occupied Territories, the Israeli government is undermining the possibility of establishing a future viable and contiguous Palestinian state and is jeopardizing the viability of the two-state solution, which remains the only guarantee of a lasting peace and has the support of the international community.

That is why France calls on the Israeli government to revoke its decision to accelerate the process for authorizing the construction of homes in the settlements and to renounce its intention to approve plans to build nearly 5,000 new housing units in several West Bank settlements.

France calls on Israel to abide by the commitments it made in Aqaba and Sharm el-Sheik in February and March.

Syria – Air strikes in Idlib province (June 25, 2023)

France utterly condemns the air strikes carried out on June 25 in Idlib province, in northwestern Syria. These attacks left at least 13 dead, including two children, and several dozen wounded.

We offer our condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones.

France reaffirms its support for the call by the UN Secretary-General and his Special Envoy to end the hostilities throughout Syria and implement a political solution in accordance with resolution 2254.

France reaffirms its commitment to the strict respect of international humanitarian law and human rights. It reiterates its support for the fight against impunity.

International Day in Support of Victims of Torture (June 26, 2023)

On this International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, France reaffirms its commitment to combat this inhumane practice and expresses its absolute solidarity with victims of torture and their loved ones, particularly in Afghanistan and in Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. It applauds the efforts of the UN, the International Criminal Court, regional organizations, civil society and human rights activists.

France financially supports the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture. It provides financial and logistical support as well as personnel to the International Criminal Court, which is helping to fight impunity for those responsible for acts of torture and is working to ensure the recognition of its victims.

France encourages all nations to ratify and implement the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and its Optional Protocol.