French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday that US President Donald Trump could only win the Nobel Peace Prize if he succeeds in ending the Gaza conflict, arguing that Washington alone has the leverage to pressure Israel into halting the war.

Macron’s remarks come after Trump’s comments that, while there have been calls for him to be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize over his achievements, his focus is on ending conflicts and saving lives rather than seeking awards.

Speaking to French broadcaster BFMTV on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Macron said, “There is only one person who could do something in the current situation — the American president.”

“I see an American president who is mobilised and who said this morning to the General Assembly: ‘I want peace, I will solve this conflict.’ Who wants the Nobel Peace Prize. The Nobel Peace Prize is only possible if you stop this conflict,” Macron added.

He stressed that pressure must be applied on the Israeli government to stop its military operations in Gaza. “You need to pressure the Israeli government so it stops, it stops the Gaza conflict, so we finally release the hostages” held by Hamas, he said.

MACRON ADMITS US HAS GREATER INFLUENCE

Macron admitted that despite France’s recognition of a Palestinian state at the UN — a move strongly opposed by both Trump and Israel — the United States holds greater influence over Israel.

“Why can he (the US president) do more than us? We do not deliver arms (to Israel) that allow the Gaza conflict to be waged,” he said.

Macron also said that the establishment of a Palestinian state depends ultimately on Israel’s recognition. “A Palestinian state will truly be created on the day the State of Israel recognises it,” he said.

ISRAEL COULD RETALIATE AGAINST FRANCE

Macron also addressed concerns about possible retaliatory measures by Israel in response to France’s decision on Palestinian statehood.

“We are ready. We have planned for all possible options, which means we will never remain inert. We just plan things and we will always defend France’s interests,” Macron said, without providing specifics.

Earlier, Macron’s return to the French embassy after delivering speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), was delayed when New York police blocked roads for Trump’s convoy. Left waiting, Macron stepped out of his car to speak with officers. As the cops told him that Trump’s motorcade was about to pass, Macron was seen calling the US President in a light-hearted manner while standing on the street.

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