Macron Reaffirms France’s Commitment to Peace and Stability in Lebanon amid Institutional Crisis

French President Emmanuel Macron met with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Paris on Friday to assure him of France’s commitment to preventing violence between Lebanon and Israel. Macron also met with Lebanese army chief Joseph Aoun and expressed his determination to support the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Macron emphasized the need for all parties to support UNIFIL and announced that France will work with European partners to address the situation in Lebanon following a recent European Council meeting. He urged Lebanese political leaders to find a way out of the institutional crisis in the country. Macron is planning to meet with other Lebanese political actors and has instructed former Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian to continue efforts to resolve the crisis.

Since President Michel Aoun’s mandate ended in October, Lebanese deputies have struggled to appoint a successor, leading to political divisions in Parliament. Mikati currently heads a resigned government with limited powers as Lebanon faces the risk of conflict with Israel. Recent clashes between Hezbollah and Israel have raised concerns about a regional escalation, with Hezbollah claiming responsibility for attacks on Israel.

Macron’s personal involvement in the crisis in Lebanon signals a renewed commitment to the country’s stability. He has called on all parties to work towards a resolution and prevent further escalation of tensions in the region. French support for Lebanon, including continued backing for the Lebanese Armed Forces, is part of Macron’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East.