Macron Condemns Escalation in South Lebanon

Macron Condemns Escalation in South Lebanon

France's President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday said nothing justifies the major escalation in south Lebanon after the Israeli military expanded its ground incursion into Lebanon. His statement followed recent developments along the border that have heightened regional tensions.

Israeli Forces Seize Strategic Site

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced in a recorded speech that Israeli forces had taken control of the strategic Beaufort Castle, known in Arabic as Qalaat al-Shaqif, in southern Lebanon. This marks the deepest incursion in more than two decades, with the Israeli army expanding its operations in the area.

Diplomatic Talks with Regional Leaders

Macron held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq, United Arab Emirates President Mohammed bin Zayed, and his Egyptian counterpart Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. In a message on X following these discussions, he stressed that it was essential for an agreement to be reached quickly between the United States and Iran.

Emergency UN Security Council Meeting

At France's request, the U.N. Security Council will hold an emergency meeting on Monday. The session comes after the seizure of the medieval Beaufort castle in southern Lebanon and amid the ongoing expansion of Israeli operations there.

Support for Lebanese Sovereignty

Macron wrote that France will continue to support the Lebanese authorities in their efforts to restore the sovereignty of the state and the country's territorial integrity. He added that regional stability must begin with Lebanon, where it is urgent that all weapons fall silent, for good.

Broader Calls for Ceasefire and Maritime Access

Macron described a ceasefire as a priority between the United States and Iran. He called for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz without any conditions and in accordance with international law. He further stated that talks must then continue to reach a comprehensive and robust agreement on other issues, particularly the nuclear and ballistic program and regional stability. France stands ready to fully play its part by helping to restore maritime traffic through the independent multinational mission set up with the United Kingdom.

Historical Background of Beaufort Castle

Beaufort Castle remains one of southern Lebanon's most prominent strategic landmarks. Israeli forces withdrew from the site in 2000 as part of their pullout from the so-called security zone they had maintained in southern Lebanon between 1982 and 2000.