France Urges US to Intervene in Israel-Lebanon Conflict
France has called on the United States to pressure Israel to halt its military operations in Lebanon, opening a new diplomatic front amid rising tensions in the region. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Paris wanted hostilities to stop and was continuing efforts to organise an international conference aimed at mobilizing support for the Lebanese Armed Forces.
The remarks came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israeli troops would remain in a security zone in southern Lebanon for as long as necessary to protect Israel's northern communities. Netanyahu argued that the buffer zone is essential to prevent Hezbollah fighters from threatening Israeli citizens near the border.
Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
France's call for US involvement marks a significant step in the ongoing conflict. Barrot emphasized the need for a coordinated international response to de-escalate the situation. The proposed conference would seek to strengthen the Lebanese Armed Forces, which have been strained by years of political and economic turmoil.
Netanyahu's stance, however, remains firm. He insists that the security zone is a temporary measure to ensure the safety of Israeli civilians. The prime minister has faced domestic pressure to take a hard line against Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran and has a significant military presence in southern Lebanon.
The conflict has raised fears of a broader regional war, with Hezbollah vowing revenge for Israeli strikes. The group has already launched rockets into northern Israel, prompting retaliatory airstrikes.
International observers warn that the situation could spiral out of control if diplomatic efforts fail. The United States, a key ally of Israel, has so far refrained from publicly criticizing the military operations. France's appeal may test Washington's willingness to exert influence on its ally.
