Speaking at the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, on Wednesday, September 25, French President Emmanuel Macron called for reform of the UN Security Council to limit veto power in cases of mass killings, in a likely reference to Russia.
"Reform of the composition alone of the Security Council is not sufficient to make it more effective. I also wish for reform to change the operational methods to limit the right to a veto in case of mass crimes," Macron told the General Assembly.
Macron also addressed Israeli strikes in Lebanon, along with the rocket attacks Hezbollah has made on Israel. "We urge Israel to cease this escalation in Lebanon, and to Hezbollah to cease these missile launches to Israel. We urge all of those who provide (Hezbollah) with the means to do so to stop doing so," he said.
Speaking on Gaza, the French president demanded a ceasefire "as soon as possible." The Gaza war "has gone on too long," Macron told the United Nations, adding that "there is no explanation possible" for the thousands of civilian deaths.
Macron also vowed to support Ukraine's resistance in the face of Russia's war in the country, but remained committed to the pursuit of peace. "France will support the remarkable resistance of the Ukrainian people, and will commit to their lasting security. Let us look for peace," he said.