France warns against prolonged Israeli presence in Lebanon amid ongoing clashes
As Israel and Hezbollah exchanges continue despite a declared ceasefire, Paris calls for restraint and urges smooth conditions for upcoming Israeli–Lebanese talks.
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French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized on Tuesday that “nothing can justify” the continued military operations and prolonged Israeli occupation in Lebanon. His remarks come as confrontations continued overnight between Israel and Hezbollah, despite Washington announcing a ceasefire.
Barrot stated in a television interview with France TV: “There is absolutely no question of sacrificing Lebanon as some kind of atonement for the failure to reach an agreement between Iran and the United States,” noting that he spoke with his American counterpart Marco Rubio on Monday evening.
The Israeli army is conducting its deepest military incursion into Lebanon since the year 2000, when it withdrew after 18 years of occupation, and has taken control of the strategic historic Beaufort Castle.
Barrot said: “What we want is for the talks scheduled this week between the Israeli and Lebanese governments to be held in the best possible circumstances.”