French Foreign Minister Urges Israel to Allow Foreign Press Access to Gaza
Paris, The Gulf Observer: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has called on Israel to permit access for foreign journalists into the besieged Gaza Strip, as concerns escalate over the humanitarian situation following 21 months of conflict.
In an interview with France Inter radio during his visit to eastern Ukraine on Tuesday, Barrot emphasized the importance of press freedom and the need for independent reporting from inside Gaza.
“I ask that the free and independent press be allowed to access Gaza to show what is happening there and to bear witness,” Barrot stated.
His remarks come amid growing international alarm over the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the Palestinian enclave, where aid agencies have repeatedly warned of a looming famine, widespread displacement, and lack of access to basic necessities due to ongoing hostilities and restrictions.
While numerous journalists and media organizations have urged for unrestricted access to report on the situation on the ground, entry into Gaza remains tightly controlled, with foreign press largely barred since the escalation of the conflict.
France, along with other international partners, has consistently advocated for the protection of civilians, the facilitation of humanitarian aid, and respect for international humanitarian law in Gaza.
Barrot’s comments underscore France’s continued commitment to press freedom and transparency, particularly in areas of conflict and humanitarian crisis.
