French President Emmanuel Macron told the BBC Israel must stop bombing Gaza and killing civilians.
In an interview published late on Friday, the French leader said France "clearly condemns" the "terrorist" actions of Hamas, but that while recognizing Israel's right to protect itself, "we do urge them to stop this bombing" in Gaza.
"These babies, these ladies, these old people are bombed and killed. So there is no reason for that and no legitimacy. So we do urge Israel to stop," the British broadcaster quoted Macron.
When asked if he wanted other leaders to join his calls for a ceasefire, Macron said, "I hope they will."
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said world leaders should be condemning Hamas, and not Israel.
"These crimes that Hamas (is) committing today in Gaza will be committed tomorrow in Paris, New York and anywhere in the world," Netanyahu said.
