N-VA optimistic about French President Macron's plan to achieve peace in the Middle East

With his peace plan, French President Emmanuel Macron aims to achieve a two-state solution, focusing on mutual recognition between Israel and Palestine. The N-VA has long been a supporter of such a solution.

“The images of children lying emaciated in bed, deprived of humanitarian aid, are unbearable to watch,” said Bart De Wever on Het Rapport van de Wetstraat, a new podcast by Het Laatste Nieuws. “This is turning into an endless saga of death and destruction. That suffering must end.”

According to De Wever, this is an age-old and highly complex conflict that cannot be viewed simplistically. For the prime minister, it’s clear that Hamas are terrorists — “the side of darkness” — but also that Israel’s unilateral invasion of Gaza was a major mistake. “They should have sought the support of the Arab world — and that support was available — to dismantle Hamas.”

Giving the peace plan every chance

De Wever therefore wants to give Macron’s peace plan every opportunity to succeed. “The current situation is hopeless,” he stated. Macron’s plan aims for Western recognition of Palestine but also for Israel to gain recognition in the Arab world. The proposal, which also calls for the dismantling of Hamas and the release of all hostages, is set to culminate in a UN peace conference in June.

“We want to open the debate on this within the government,” said De Wever. “Macron’s initiative has at least the merit of trying to bring a sustainable solution to the table.”

Party chair Valerie Van Peel added on De Ochtend that this does not represent a change of course, even though that perception seems to exist.

“No one within the party is unmoved by this violence. Everyone stands on the side of humanity,” she said. “What we have always done is acknowledge the complexity of this issue — without thinking we can solve it with a few strong statements. Fortunately, Macron understands that as well.”

“We’re all on the same side. Everyone wants this to stop.”

Van Peel also emphasized that the N-VA has always expressed a consistent position: “This conflict is even mentioned in the coalition agreement. The only new element is Macron’s initiative. That’s why Bart, in his role as prime minister, traveled to France to learn more about the proposal so he can present it to the government.”

She also called for an end to grandstanding and for unity. “We need to try to understand the complexity of this issue and take steps that might actually make a difference. That’s the path we’ve chosen, and it has always been that way.”