Paris: French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced that France has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council due to the rapidly deteriorating situation in Lebanon.

According to Anadolu Agency, Barrot stated on US social media platform X that France is implementing urgent diplomatic and humanitarian measures in response to the escalating crisis. He emphasized that Paris is committed to addressing the situation promptly, highlighting the allocation of 6 million pounds (approximately $6.9 million) in emergency assistance to humanitarian organizations already active in Lebanon.

Barrot also revealed plans to send 20 tons of humanitarian aid to Lebanon, expected to arrive on Tuesday. In addition, the French government has opened the crisis support fund, managed by the Foreign Ministry's crisis center, for contributions from companies and local authorities interested in supporting relief efforts.

France is actively engaging with both Lebanese and Israeli authorities to prevent further escalation. Barrot noted ongoing exchanges aimed at securing a ceasefire and advancing the necessary process of Hezbollah's disarmament. Despite a ceasefire agreement since November 2024, Israeli violations have continued, resulting in significant casualties.

Israeli airstrikes have resulted in over 400 deaths and displaced thousands across Lebanon since Monday, following cross-border attacks with Hezbollah. The situation intensified after a joint attack by Israel and the US on Iran, which killed over 1,200 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries with US military assets.