French Muslim Council Condemns Gaza Violence, Urges Dialogue for Peace

"The atrocities committed on both sides against civilians must be condemned with equal force. The pain of a Palestinian family is identical to that of an Israeli family. And the life of a Palestinian child is as precious as that of an Israeli child," reacts the CFCM in a statement, denouncing "inhuman atrocities" that "nothing can justify". The Muslim organization is outraged to see these "horrific images of massacres committed against unarmed civilians", which "are an unbearable attack on human dignity and life".

"The solution to this conflict that has lasted too long can only be political and in dialogue," the CFCM is convinced, recalling "the inhumane and contrary to all international human rights conventions" blockade imposed on Gaza for 15 years. According to the organization chaired by Franco-Moroccan Mohammed Moussaoui, "the two-state solution that must live side by side in peace, a constant position of France and the international community, is the most credible to get out of this cycle of violence".

"This position must not be a mere incantation in which the chancelleries seem to no longer believe. The unconditional relaunch of the peace process to arrive at a solution in accordance with international law and UN resolutions must become a priority for the international community again," adds the CFCM, strongly calling for "the immediate and urgent cessation of violence, terror, and cruel and blind vengeance that will lead nowhere but to more pain and less humanity" on the one hand, and urging on the other hand, the Muslims of France "to raise prayers so that Israelis and Palestinians can find the paths of peace and security and build a better future together for future generations".

On Saturday, Hamas launched the "Al-Aqsa Torrent" operation from Gaza against Israel before 6:30 am (3:30 am GMT). In total, more than "5,000 rockets" were fired. The Israeli retaliation did not wait. After five days of intense fighting, the toll continues to rise. On the Israeli side, more than 1,200 people have been killed since the start of the offensive, according to the army spokesman. On the Palestinian side, local authorities report more than 900 dead.