Temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon

France welcomes the US President’s announcement of a 10-day temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. This truce is a necessary and welcome first step in providing respite to the populations following several weeks of deadly conflict in Lebanon and in Israel.

France congratulates the United States on its active efforts, building on the direct talks between Israel and Lebanon in Washington on 14 April. It reaffirms its full support for the Lebanese Government’s brave decision to embark on these historic discussions with Israel, in the primary interest of the Lebanese people.

France now calls on all the parties to abide fully by this ceasefire and refrain from any action liable to jeopardize the truce’s implementation. It calls for discussions between Israel and Lebanon to continue in order to work towards a political solution including Israeli withdrawal and Hezbollah’s disarmament and, beyond this, allowing a path of peace and security for the two countries to be mapped out.

France reaffirms its commitment to full respect for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, in accordance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701. It will remain fully mobilized alongside its European, regional and international partners to support the ongoing diplomatic process.