Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman said Sunday that he had met with French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius and discussed with him the IDF's activity in Gaza. Speaking to reporters, Lieberman added that he had also discussed the criticism being leveled at Israel over the operation in Europe.
Appearing with Lieberman, Fabius called the current situation "an emergency". He added, "The solution is a ceasefire. We want to help to find the terms of a ceasefire."
Lieberman said that he appreciated the input from France and Israel's other friends in Europe, and that Israel was prepared to discuss ideas to ensure the security of the region – but only after Hamas and other Gaza terror groups commit to a complete end of all rocket attacks on Israel, now and in the future. Until it is clear that the rocket threat against Israel has ended, there could be no discussion of a cease-fire or any other arrangement, he said.
“We appreciate the efforts of France to prevent residents of the region from falling victim to war and to help both sides reach a long-term arrangement that will include an end to the terror imposed on Israelis citizens,” Lieberman said. However, he added, “neither Israel nor any other country can accept a situation where a million people are unable to live normal lives, not going to work or to school, having to manage their lives according to the alerts of incoming missiles.
“We appreciate all of the recommendations provided by our friends,” Lieberman added, “but the first condition must be an absolute end to the rocket attacks on Israel by Gaza Arab terrorists. As soon as the attacks end, we will be happy to discuss any plans.”