French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has strongly criticized the Israeli government for its ongoing attacks on Lebanon on France Inter radio.
According to the minister, it is unacceptable for Lebanon to be turned into a “scapegoat” just because the Israeli government is dissatisfied with the ceasefire reached between the United States and Iran. Barrot emphasized that the destruction of the Lebanese state will not only not eliminate the Hezbollah group, but, on the contrary, will lead to its strengthening.
Turning to regional security, the French diplomat noted that Iran must stop intimidating Israel through Hezbollah, which in turn must immediately disarm. He described the current ceasefire as “temporary” and “extremely fragile,” and called on the parties to refrain from steps that would further aggravate the situation.
As a sign of solidarity, France has joined Lebanon in observing today’s national day of mourning.
