France has called on the European Union to restrict trade with Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, arguing that such settlements are illegal and that the EU should not continue supporting related commercial activities.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said he had again encouraged European countries to take action. He compared the proposed restrictions with the EU’s decision to stop imports from Crimea after Russia occupied the territory in 2014.
Barrot acknowledged that implementing similar restrictions on settlement goods would require agreement among EU member states. He also strongly criticized the increasing violence by Israeli settlers in the occupied West Bank, saying it threatens Palestinian dignity, Israel’s security and the possibility of achieving a two-state solution.
The French foreign minister also rejected allegations that France was involved in a recent military mutiny in Niger, describing the accusations as completely unfounded. He said France had neither the intention nor the capability to participate in the unrest.
The August 29 mutiny involved soldiers attacking a major military airbase and other strategic locations in Niger’s capital, Niamey. Forces loyal to the government later regained control with support from Russia’s Africa Corps.
Despite France’s denial, Niger’s government accused Paris of encouraging the unrest and supporting the mutineers.
NEWS DESK
PRESS UPDATE