Defense and National Security Council on the situation in Lebanon and recent developments in the crisis in the Middle East.

The Head of State chaired a Defense and National Security Council on the situation in Lebanon and recent developments in the crisis in the Middle East, on Tuesday October 1, 2024, at the Elysée Palace, in the presence of the Prime Minister, the Minister of the Interior, the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and the Minister of the Armed Forces.

Faced with the dangerous escalation of tensions in the Middle East, the President of the Republic reaffirmed France’s commitment to peace and security for all in the region. As such, he condemned in the strongest possible terms Iran’s new attacks against Israel. Committed to Israel’s security, France today mobilized its military resources in the Middle East to counter the Iranian threat. The Head of State also recalled France’s demand that Hezbollah cease its terrorist actions against Israel and its population.

The President of the Republic also expressed France’s desire to act for Lebanon. He demanded that Israel put an end to its military operations as quickly as possible. He judged that too many civilians are already victims. He hoped that Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity would be restored in strict compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. In this regard, he reaffirmed France’s commitment to UNIFIL. He noted that it is also up to the Lebanese to come together at this critical moment. France will stand alongside all those who act in this direction and will very soon organize a conference in support of the Lebanese people and their institutions.

The President of the Republic reiterated his determination to obtain a long-term settlement that ensures the security of populations on both sides of the Blue Line. The displaced must be able to return to their homes in complete safety, both in Israel and in Lebanon. The United Nations Security Council must be contacted and be able to express itself on the current situation.

The President of the Republic instructed the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs to visit the Middle East again. He will consult all those who have a role to play in initiating de-escalation and finding lasting solutions to the current crisis in all its aspects, particularly with regard to the situation in Lebanon and Gaza.

Attentive to the security and protection of our compatriots in Lebanon and the Middle East, the Head of State asked that all necessary measures be taken to assist them and, if necessary, come to their aid. He also asked that the greatest vigilance be observed and that adequate measures be taken to prevent the possible repercussions of these latest developments in the Middle East on the national territory and ensure everyone’s security.

The President of the Republic concluded that it was necessary for all actors involved in the crisis in the Middle East to exercise the greatest restraint.