Macron and Netanyahu have 'frank' discussion after weekend tension

President Emmanuel Macron’s office said the French leader has had a “frank” discussion about the Middle East situation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Both leaders accepted their divergence of views, as well as their desire to be well understood by each other, Macron's office said in a statement.

Macron expressed his country’s solidarity with the Israeli people, especially the victims, the hostages in Gaza and their families.

“France’s commitment to Israel’s security is unwavering," Macron was quoted as telling Netanyahu.

But Macron added that arms deliveries, the prolongation of the war in Gaza and its extension to Lebanon will not produce security for either Israelis or others living in the region.

The phone call on Sunday between the two leaders comes after Macron drew strong criticism from Netanyahu by saying, “the priority is … that we stop delivering weapons to fight in Gaza.”

Netanyahu responded that Israel will win "with or without" the support of Macron and other Western leaders who are now calling for arms embargoes against Israel.