Paris: France has called for Lebanon to be a part of any Middle East ceasefire agreement, expressing concern over escalating security risks in the Strait of Hormuz and the fragility of regional stability. Defense Minister Catherine Vautrin emphasized the need for an immediate cessation of Israeli strikes, stating, “There must be a ceasefire on Lebanon,” during an interview with BFMTV-RMC.
According to Anadolu Agency, Vautrin highlighted the urgency of including Lebanon in diplomatic efforts, following the ceasefire announcement between the United States and Iran. She stressed that Lebanon “absolutely must be included” in the agreement. Vautrin also expressed uncertainty about maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, referring to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards’ claims about potential mining in the area. Despite the situation’s volatility, she noted that France is not currently considering deploying naval forces but did not rule out future actions for demining.
Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot echoed the call for stabilizing Lebanon, condemning Israeli strikes and emphasizing Lebanon’s importance in the region’s geopolitical landscape. Barrot warned against allowing Lebanon to become a scapegoat following the US-Iran ceasefire and aligned France’s stance with Lebanon during its national mourning. He also described the ceasefire as fragile, predicting challenging peace negotiations ahead.
French Deputy Defense Minister Alice Rufo, speaking to RTL, acknowledged the ceasefire as a positive step but warned that the situation remains precarious due to Iran’s nuclear and regional activities. She criticized Israel’s response as disproportionate and stressed the importance of including Lebanon in the ceasefire agreement and managing the Strait of Hormuz safely.
Barrot reiterated France’s demand for Iran to renounce its nuclear ambitions and the use of missiles and drones to threaten regional countries. He also rejected any proposals requiring ships to pay transit fees to Iran, asserting the freedom of navigation in international waters as a universal right.