Paris, May 21 (SANA) French President Emmanuel Macron’s special envoy to Lebanon, Jean-Yves Le Drian, warned Thursday that Lebanon’s unity and territorial integrity remain under threat amid continued regional tensions and ongoing security challenges.
Speaking to French broadcasters BFM TV and RMC Radio, Le Drian said Lebanon’s sovereignty was being undermined by Israel’s continued presence in parts of Lebanese territory and by Hezbollah’s military role, which he said aligned with Iranian interests, according to Agence France-Presse (AFP).
Le Drian nevertheless welcomed the extension of the Lebanon-Israel truce, saying it created a new 45-day window for diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions and supporting stability in Lebanon.
He also pointed to what he described as growing willingness among Lebanese officials to engage in direct negotiations with Israel in an effort to strengthen state authority and reduce the risk of further escalation.
The French envoy described U.S. involvement in the negotiations as constructive, despite what he said was Israeli opposition to French participation in the talks, which Lebanon had requested.
Lebanese authorities have continued to report near-daily Israeli strikes despite the extension of the ceasefire arrangement.
According to the latest figures released by the Lebanese Health Ministry, Israeli strikes since the escalation began on March 2 have killed 3,073 people and injured 9,362 others.
R.H/Abd
