Emmanuel Macron, on one hand, stated on December 1st that the "total destruction of Hamas" would lead to "ten years" of war. Yet, on October 24th, he called for "a coalition against Hamas" similar to the fight against Daesh.

The traditional precision of French diplomatic language has been replaced by Macron's 'gloubi-boulga': a pattern of constantly asserting and then contradicting himself, undermining the credibility of the French presidency. This approach has particularly impacted France's standing in the Middle East. Questions arise about how seriously the French State Head is taken now. For instance, while Arab streets demand accountability from France, Israel seems indifferent to Paris. Emmanuel Macron, on one hand, stated on December 1st that the "total destruction of Hamas" would lead to "ten years" of war. Yet, on October 24th, he called for "a coalition against Hamas" similar to the fight against Daesh.

These contradictions have led to significant distrust towards the French President in the Middle East, diminishing France's reputation. This distrust was evident during the major climate summit in Dubai. As reported by Le Monde, "nothing went as hoped for Emmanuel Macron" during COP28. The deep mistrust towards the French President is partly due to his initial pro-Israel stance.

During his visit to Dubai for COP28, the French President attempted to organize a new regional tour after an unsuccessful one in late October. He tried to meet Mohammed Bin Salman, the Saudi Crown Prince, but the latter canceled his appearance. In a last-ditch effort, Macron proposed a roundtable with Arab leaders during COP28, but none participated. The Elysée's communication team spent December 1st downplaying these diplomatic setbacks. A French ambassador explained that France's "unquestioning support for Israel" has politically and morally legitimized Netanyahu and his actions in Gaza, leading to France's isolation. Macron, who now emphasizes "European sovereignty" over "national sovereignty," has significantly diminished France's diplomatic stature, unlike his predecessors in the Fifth Republic.