French President Emmanuel Macron declared on Tuesday that the extension of the Gaza conflict to Lebanon would have “serious consequences for the country and the Lebanese people.”
On the occasion of Lebanon’s Independence Day, Macron acknowledged France’s unique responsibility to Lebanon, reflecting on its role within the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
“No party should use Lebanese territory in a way that contradicts its sovereign interests,” he stated.
In a letter to Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, the French president shared his discussions with the Israeli prime minister, expressing concerns about the risks of escalation and the extension of the conflict to Lebanon.
Macron continued: “The presidential vacancy, which has lasted for over a year, weighs on the country’s ability to overcome the current crisis and avoid the deterioration of the security situation linked to the ongoing war in Gaza.”
President Macron stated that creating favorable conditions for elections and government formation is urgent, as Lebanon will remain at a standstill without a president of the Republic.
Furthermore, he mentioned that his representative, Jean-Yves Le Drian, will be working in this direction.
It is worth noting that Le Drian is scheduled to arrive in Lebanon on Tuesday evening for a two-day visit, during which he will meet with government officials.
