Israel / Palestinian Territories
France condemns the Israeli authorities’ decision to approve plans for nearly 3,500 housing units (March 8, 2024)

France strongly condemns the Israeli authorities’ recent decision to approve plans for nearly 3,500 new housing units in West Bank settlements.

We call on the Israeli government to immediately reverse this decision, which is unacceptable, illegal, and irresponsible given the extremely high tensions that already exist on the West Bank and the approach of sensitive religious holidays.

The Israeli settlement of the Palestinian Territories, which has led to evictions and the demolition of Palestinian structures in Area C and East Jerusalem, is a flagrant violation of international law and must stop. Outposts, which are also illegal under Israeli law, must be dismantled without delay.

France condemns all unilateral measures that undermine prospects for a two-State solution, which is the only way to ensure Israeli’s right to security and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinians. That is why we have adopted sanctions against the extremist Israeli settlers who are to blame for acts of violence against Palestinian civilians on the West Bank.

Senegal
Political situation (March 8, 2024)

France welcomes the recent decision by Senegal’s Constitutional Council concerning the election process.

President Macky Sall’s decision to hold the presidential election on March 24 reflects the strength of Senegal’s democratic institutions.

Azerbaijan
France is deeply concerned by the recent wave of arrests (March 8, 2024)

France is deeply concerned by the recent wave of arrests in Azerbaijan, which once again targeted members of civil society and the independent media.

We call on Azerbaijan to respect fundamental liberties – particularly freedom of speech and freedom of the press – in line with its international commitments, and to release those individuals who have been arbitrarily detained.

On this International Women’s Day, we applaud the role and bravery of female Azerbaijani independent journalists.