Macron backs Palestinian statehood as Gaza crisis dominates U.N.

The war in Gaza is expected to dominate this week’s U.N. session as Israeli Forces continue in their campaign to occupy Gaza.

By Nathan Morley

The war in Gaza is expected to dominate this week’s U.N. session

French President Emmanuel Macron said Monday that France will formally recognize a Palestinian state, joining the U.K., Canada, Australia and Portugal. Macron also called for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas and an end to the fighting, telling delegates that “nothing justifies the ongoing war.”

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres warned Israel against annexing the West Bank and urged a halt to settlement expansion.

President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet on Tuesday with officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia and Pakistan to discuss Gaza.

The Trump administration has voiced strong opposition to Palestinian statehood.

Israeli attacks continue amid humanitarian catastrophe

On the ground, Gaza residents report Israeli shelling and drone attacks in Gaza City.

Israel has also used explosive-laden armored vehicles to demolish housing blocks.

More than two dozen countries, including Canada, France and Germany, are urging Israel to reopen the medical corridor between Gaza and the Israeli-occupied West Bank to allow patient transfers for treatment.

Listen to the report by Nathan Morley