France’s Macron Urges Pause in Fighting During Eid Amid Middle East Escalation

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Brussels: French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a temporary ceasefire in the Middle East during Eid al-Fitr, urging all sides to halt fighting and allow space for negotiations as tensions continue to escalate in the Iran conflict.

Speaking on Thursday as European Union leaders gathered in Brussels, Macron stressed the need for calm during the religious holiday. “The fighting should stop, at least for a few days, to give negotiations a chance,” he said.

Macron also proposed a “moratorium” on attacks targeting civilian infrastructure and populations, calling for immediate de-escalation. He reiterated that France supports dialogue and diplomatic efforts, maintaining its position of not participating in the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign against Iran.

Highlighting the broader humanitarian impact, Macron warned that the situation in Iran should not overshadow the crisis in Gaza, urging continued international attention and aid efforts.

He also revealed he had spoken with the Emir of Qatar following recent strikes that targeted gas production facilities, noting that several Gulf countries had been hit in a widening cycle of retaliation. Describing the escalation as “reckless,” Macron cautioned against further regional destabilization.

Addressing developments in Lebanon, Macron called for full support to preserve the country’s sovereignty and security. He emphasized that Lebanese authorities should regain control over security matters without external military intervention, while urging Israel to respect Lebanon’s territorial integrity.

The conflict, which began with joint strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran in late February, has since expanded across the region, drawing in multiple actors and targeting critical energy infrastructure. The escalation has driven global oil prices higher and heightened fears of a broader regional war.

Macron’s appeal comes amid growing international concern over the widening conflict and its potential long-term consequences.