French Ambassador: To Ensure Lebanon is Not Dragged into Regional Escalation

The French Ambassador to Lebanon, Hervé Magro, visited the Maronite League at its headquarters and met with its president, Ambassador Khalil Karam, in the presence of former league presidents: former MP Ni'matallah Abi Nasr, Syndicate presidents Antoine Clemios and Samir Abi al-Lama, guardian Shihab, and members of the executive council. During the meeting, according to a statement from the League, the Lebanese situation was discussed from various aspects in light of the war in Gaza and its repercussions, especially in the south and the role that France is playing during this phase. Magro emphasized that his country’s efforts are focused on ensuring that Lebanon is not drawn into the ongoing regional escalation, announcing that Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian will soon be in Beirut to follow up on the mission of the quintet committee aimed at finding a solution to the presidential vacancy crisis. The issue of Syrian displacement to Lebanon was also discussed during the meeting, after Ambassador Karam expressed the concerns of the Lebanese regarding it. Magro stated that his country wishes to play a role in this file to reach a resolution that aligns with Lebanon's interests, stressing the importance of the incoming president following up on this matter. The discussion also touched on France's role in supporting the educational system and the healthcare sector in Lebanon. Magro affirmed France's continued support for the Lebanese army and security forces to fulfill their role in maintaining stability in the country.