Macron Urges Restraint Amid Escalating Lebanon Conflict

PARIS: (Web Desk) – French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday expressed concern over the escalating conflict in southern Lebanon, saying that nothing justified the major military escalation currently taking place in the region.

In a message posted on social media following consultations with several regional leaders, Macron stressed the urgent need for diplomatic efforts to prevent further instability and called for a swift agreement between the United States and Iran.

The French president held discussions with Mohammed bin Salman, Haitham bin Tariq, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to discuss the rapidly evolving regional situation.

Amid growing tensions, France has requested an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council, which is scheduled to meet on Monday following Israel’s expanded military operations in Lebanon and its reported seizure of the strategically significant Beaufort Castle.

Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Lebanese institutions, emphasizing the importance of restoring state sovereignty and preserving the country’s territorial integrity.

He also stressed that long-term regional stability must begin with a lasting cessation of hostilities in Lebanon, calling for all weapons to fall silent permanently.

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Addressing broader regional concerns, Macron urged an immediate ceasefire between the United States and Iran and called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without conditions and in accordance with international law.

The French leader added that diplomatic negotiations should continue toward a comprehensive agreement addressing issues including Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes as well as wider regional security concerns.

Macron further stated that France stands ready to contribute to efforts aimed at restoring maritime traffic through an independent multinational mission established in cooperation with the United Kingdom.