France’s Efforts to Prevent Escalation Between Israel and Hezbollah
France’s foreign minister is set to visit Lebanon to push proposals aimed at preventing further escalation and potential war between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah. The historical ties between France and Lebanon have positioned Paris as a mediator in the ongoing tensions between the two sides. The proposed initiative suggests Hezbollah’s elite unit pull back 10 km from the Israeli border, while Israel would halt strikes in southern Lebanon. However, the proposal has not made significant progress, but France is determined to keep the momentum in talks to avoid a regional conflagration.
The recent tit-for-tat strikes between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified following Iran’s missile barrage on Israel in response to a suspected Israeli attack on the Iranian embassy in Damascus. The French proposal, discussed with partners like the United States, aims to underscore to Lebanese officials the seriousness of Israeli threats of a military operation in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has insisted on a ceasefire in Gaza before engaging in concrete discussions, while Israel seeks to restore calm on its northern border for the return of displaced Israelis.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Nikati and army chief Joseph Aoun met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the initiative, which Lebanon views as a significant step towards peace and security in the region. However, responses from Lebanese officials have been general and lack consensus, indicating that it is still early for any form of agreement. Nevertheless, France believes it is crucial to engage now to ensure readiness when the time for an accord arrives.
In addition to addressing the Israel-Hezbollah tensions, France will emphasize the urgency of breaking the political deadlock in Lebanon, which has been without a head of state or fully empowered cabinet since October 2022. The country’s instability adds to the complexity of the situation, requiring a multifaceted approach to address both security and political challenges.
Israel has cautiously supported the French initiative, recognizing the importance of efforts to defuse cross-border tensions. With 700 troops stationed in southern Lebanon as part of the UN peacekeeping force, France aims to strengthen the mission by bolstering the Lebanese army’s capabilities. The presence of UN troops has been crucial in maintaining stability in the region, but their effectiveness has been hindered by various challenges.
Following his visit to Lebanon, the French foreign minister will travel to Saudi Arabia before heading to Israel. Arab and Western foreign ministers, along with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will convene at a World Economic Forum event in Riyadh to discuss the ongoing Gaza war with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. The informal talks will provide an opportunity for key stakeholders to address the complex dynamics of the conflict and explore potential avenues for de-escalation.
In conclusion, France’s diplomatic efforts in the Middle East reflect its commitment to preventing further escalation and promoting peace and stability in the region. By engaging with all parties involved and proposing concrete initiatives, France seeks to defuse tensions and pave the way for meaningful dialogue and cooperation. The upcoming visits to Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, and Israel underscore France’s role as a key mediator in addressing the complex challenges facing the region.