Paris: Former French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin on Tuesday called for the prosecution of Israeli officials before the International Criminal Court (ICC), demanding the suspension of the European Union-Israel agreement and the imposition of an arms embargo against Israel.
According to Anadolu Agency, Villepin outlined three critical actions during an interview with France Info. He urged an immediate suspension of the EU-Israel agreement due to the significant portion of Israel's trade conducted with Europe. He also called for an arms embargo from all European countries and advocated for bringing the entire Israeli government and senior military officials before the ICC.
Villepin emphasized that the ongoing situation is part of an "Israeli plan" aimed at the "reoccupation" and "annexation" of the Gaza Strip, rather than mere "improvisation." He accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government of pursuing a political objective of deporting Gaza's population.
The former premier expressed concern over the "spiral of violence" gripping the region, which he warned could lead to further conflict, the resupply of Israel, and a rise in terrorism.
In response to questions about a recent call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Villepin dismissed the conversation as a "charade," suggesting it was merely "theater." He argued that Trump's priorities lie not with Ukraine, but with enhancing the bilateral relationship with Russia and exploring economic opportunities within Russian territory.