Israelis must withdraw from South Lebanon, Paris ready to help: Macron

By Al Mayadeen English
17 Jan 2025 16:09

French President Emmanuel Macron discusses the ceasefire implementation and France's role post-war in Lebanon.

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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, right, shakes hands with French President Emmanuel Macron after their news conference at the presidential palace in Baabda, in east of Beirut, Lebanon, Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 (AP)

The Israeli army must withdraw completely from South Lebanon, French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed on Friday, calling for the adequate implementation of the ceasefire agreement between "Israel" and Lebanon.

During a diplomatic visit to Beirut, Macron said the Lebanese army should be the only armed faction in Lebanon, claiming Lebanon's detachment from "foreign interferences is a condition of the implementation of the ceasefire agreement."

"There have been results... but they must be accelerated and long-lasting. There needs to be complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the Lebanese army must hold total monopoly of any weapons," he said.

He also addressed newly elected Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, asserting France's readiness to help outline Lebanon's southern borders along the Blue Line, as well as aid Lebanon assert its sovereignty across all of its territories.

In this context, the French leader further stressed the reinforcement of UNIFIL's work in the Lebanese south, noting that the organization's secretary general was already discussing efforts for al-Naqoura.

"France has stood by Lebanon during its difficult years, and it looks forward to working more closely with you [Lebanese people and government]. We will support your goal of preserving sovereignty and protecting Lebanon from foreign interference and aggression," Macron additionally claimed.

He also announced that France will organize an international conference in Paris to rally French and European efforts to rebuild Lebanon and urged the rapid formation of a new government, emphasizing that pluralism and reconciliation are essential, expressing hope that "the upcoming reforms and political projects will move in this direction."

Macron vows to continue providing support to Lebanese gov: Mikati

French President Emmanuel Macron began an official visit to Lebanon on Friday morning to congratulate President Joseph Aoun on his election and to hold discussions on ways to support the country.

Macron met with outgoing Prime Minister Najib Mikati in a meeting that lasted about 45 minutes. Speaking to reporters afterward, Macron said he was "pleased to be in Lebanon, which has entered a new phase."

He said he expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Mikati for his efforts over the years in serving all of Lebanon, particularly during the very challenging period caused by the recent war on the country.

Macron noted that he would meet with members of the ceasefire monitoring committee, President Aoun, and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri.