فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
On September 23, 2025, in New York City, a humorous incident captured widespread media and social media attention when French President Emmanuel Macron’s movement was temporarily halted in front of the French Embassy. This occurred due to the passing of the motorcade of U.S. President Donald Trump during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Incident Details
Video footage that quickly spread on social media showed Macron attempting to leave the United Nations headquarters after delivering his historic speech announcing France’s recognition of the State of Palestine. However, U.S. police temporarily blocked his way due to security protocols related to Trump’s motorcade—a standard procedure during such international events.
While waiting on the sidewalk, Macron made a phone call to Trump, jokingly saying,
“Imagine, I’m waiting in the street because everything is stopped for you.”
French officials described the call as friendly and warm, with no sharp criticism recorded during the dialogue. Macron also brought up the Gaza crisis, proposing a brief discussion involving Qatar, highlighting Doha’s ongoing role as a mediator in ceasefire talks.
Diplomatic Context
This initiative reflects Macron’s efforts to strengthen international engagement in resolving the Gaza crisis, alongside ongoing U.S. diplomatic moves involving Arab leaders discussing post-war plans. Macron emphasized Qatar’s crucial mediation role, noting its hosting of Hamas leaders for hostage negotiations since the escalation of conflict in October 2023.
The proposal for a trilateral discussion between France, the U.S., and Qatar also signals Macron’s wish to build European-American consensus on diplomatic solutions, despite challenges posed by divergent positions from Washington and Tel Aviv.
Social Media Reaction
The video triggered wide reactions on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), ranging from surprise at the traffic disruption and ridicule of the situation to praise for Macron’s use of the moment to reaffirm his stance on the Palestinian issue. Some users viewed it as embarrassing given the recent Palestine recognition, while others saw Macron leveraging the event to boost an international initiative for stabilizing Gaza.
Brief Timeline of Events
| Date | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| September 22, 2025 | Macron’s side meeting at the UN | Discussion on two-state solution; France hosts talks with Saudi Arabia |
| September 23, 2025 (morning) | Macron’s speech at the UN | Announcement of France’s recognition of Palestine and call for UN force in Gaza |
| September 23, 2025 (afternoon) | Motorcade halt | Macron waits on the sidewalk and negotiates with police |
| September 23, 2025 (during wait) | Call with Trump | Macron proposes quick Gaza discussion with Qatar |
| September 23, 2025 (post-call) | Arrival at French Embassy | Macron walks and interacts with pedestrians; video circulates online |
| September 24, 2025 | Trump meets Arab leaders | Talks about Gaza peace plan with Qatar’s Emir and others |
Key Quotes
| Speaker | Quote | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Emmanuel Macron | “Imagine, I’m waiting in the street because everything is stopped for you.” | Expressing his situation during call with Trump |
| Emmanuel Macron | “I would like to have a brief discussion this week with Qatar and you about the Gaza situation.” | Proposal for joint talks on Gaza |
| NYPD Officer | “Sorry, Mr. President, everything is stopped right now due to the motorcade.” | Explaining the traffic halt to Macron |
| French Official | “The call was very friendly and warm.” | Describing Macron-Trump dialogue |
| Emir of Qatar | “State terrorism.” | Condemning Israeli strikes amid mediation effort |
Conclusion
Although the incident may appear trivial, it highlights the interplay of personal diplomacy and global issues. Macron seized the moment to reinforce France’s supportive position on Palestine and advocate for an international initiative to stabilize Gaza, at a time when the UN General Assembly focuses on peace and security in the Middle East.
Sources
New York Times | Reuters | AP News | The Guardian | Al Jazeera
