LEBENON: French officials emphasize the need for consensus among Lebanese stakeholders, acknowledging the current lack thereof. They stress the importance of initiating dialogue to ensure readiness on both sides when the opportunity for an agreement arises.
Additionally, France will highlight the urgency of resolving Lebanon’s political deadlock, which has persisted since the end of Michel Aoun’s presidency term in October 2022.
While Israel maintains caution regarding the French initiative, it expresses support for efforts aimed at easing cross-border tensions. However, a Lebanese diplomat characterizes the situation as one of strategic ambiguity on both sides, suggesting ongoing uncertainties.
France, with 700 troops stationed in southern Lebanon as part of the UN peacekeeping force, seeks to enhance the mission’s effectiveness by bolstering the Lebanese army. This move aligns with efforts to address the challenges facing UN troops in fulfilling their mandate.
Following his visit to Lebanon, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne will proceed to Saudi Arabia before heading to Israel. Arab and Western foreign ministers, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, will convene informally at a World Economic Forum event in Riyadh to discuss the Gaza conflict with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
