France has criticized the United States decision to call Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and urged Israel to end the construction of illegal settlements as a gesture of peace.

In a joint press conference after meeting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron urged the Israeli leader to negotiate with the Palestinians to pave the way for the establishment of two states living side by side in peace.

Commenting on President Trump's decision, Macron expressed his deep disapproval as it contradicts international law.

Responding to Emmanuel Macron's calls for negotiations, Netanyahu said he has more than once reached out to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.