France Condemns Israeli Airstrike That Killed Relief Workers in Gaza

French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné strongly condemned the Israeli airstrike that resulted in the deaths of seven individuals working for the World Central Kitchen charity, founded by renowned chef José Andrés, in Gaza. In a press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, he stated, "Protecting humanitarian workers is a moral and legal obligation that everyone must adhere to... Nothing can justify such a tragedy." He added, "All actions by France in the Middle East aim to reduce tensions in the region," noting that "the risk of escalating violence in the Middle East lies with certain parties in Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen." The minister refrained from discussing the airstrike carried out earlier this week on the Iranian embassy compound in Syria. Iran accuses Israel of being responsible for the attack, but Israel has not claimed responsibility.