France urges Israel to halt Lebanon attacks, citing long-term interests

France is intensifying diplomatic efforts to urge Israel to cease its military actions in southern Lebanon. President Emmanuel Macron and Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot have both stressed that a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon is a crucial component of the recently agreed-upon peace deal between the United States and Iran.

In a television interview on June 18, 2026, Macron argued that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's military strategy in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon is ultimately detrimental to Israel's own long-term interests. "The strategy that continues in Gaza, the West Bank, and southern Lebanon is contrary to Israel's interests in the long run because it fuels hatred and violence among the people in the region," Macron stated. He echoed U.S. President Donald Trump's call for Netanyahu to demonstrate greater responsibility in managing regional conflicts, asserting that Israel's security cannot be guaranteed through occupation or control of neighboring territories.

Macron also highlighted the significance of the new US-Iran peace agreement for Lebanon's stability. "We will soon mobilize the international community to help the Lebanese army regain control of its territory," he announced. While welcoming the agreement, Macron cautioned that the conflict with Iran is not entirely over, viewing the deal as the beginning of a new phase of dialogue and cooperation. "It is always better to have a deal than war, especially when there is a risk of escalation, and that is what is happening," he said, adding, "We cannot achieve regime change through bombing."

Following Macron's remarks, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot urged Israel on June 19, 2026, to adhere to its ceasefire commitments in Lebanon and called on Washington to leverage its influence over Tel Aviv. Barrot reiterated that ending hostilities in Lebanon is a primary principle of the US-Iran memorandum of understanding. "The first principle of this agreement is the cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon," he stated. He indicated that the next phase involves ensuring all aspects of the agreement are implemented through ongoing technical discussions, with compliance from all parties, including Israel, being essential for success. Barrot warned that failure to implement the deal could prolong instability in the Middle East and lead to global economic repercussions, particularly affecting trade and energy routes.