Macron emphasizes national interest over regional disputes in Lebanon

French President Emmanuel Macron called on Thursday for “all parties to act to prevent war,” following the Israeli Occupation’s fatal cyberattack on Hezbollah communication devices, which resulted in 37 deaths and around 3,000 injuries.

In phone calls with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri, and Army Commander Joseph Aoun, Macron expressed his “deep concern” over the recent explosions in Lebanon.

He warned that these events “exacerbate regional tensions and endanger civilian lives.”

According to a statement from the Élysée Palace, Macron will also speak with “Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, underscoring the need for “all parties to take action to avoid conflict.”

The Élysée further stated that Macron urged Lebanese officials to “fulfill their responsibilities to prevent escalation and to convey messages of calm and restraint to all Lebanese factions, particularly Hezbollah.”

Macron also emphasized his “strong belief” that achieving stability in Lebanon requires Lebanese parties to prioritize national interests over regional disputes and commit to a diplomatic resolution.

Macron’s statement concluded by asserting that “Lebanese leaders must establish a legitimate executive authority capable of addressing the current crisis effectively.”