French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu, during his call with Lebanese counterpart Maurice Slim, affirmed that "France is in contact with the entire international community to discuss the situation in Gaza," stressing the "necessity of keeping Lebanon away from the repercussions of the events in the Palestinian territories." He noted that "Lebanon is a central issue for France." Lecornu discussed the importance of UNIFIL's role in the south and the need to avoid any escalation along the southern borders.
For his part, Minister Slim pointed out the "ongoing Israeli violations against civilians and civilian, health, and religious facilities in blatant violation of international humanitarian law." He emphasized "the continuous and close coordination between the army and UNIFIL," reaffirming Lebanon's commitment to their role and safety. The Defense Minister appreciated France's efforts to curb the escalation and development of the conflict in the region.
In a different context, Slim met in his office in Yarzeh with Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Elias Bou Saab and MPs Adib Abd El-Masih, Saji Attia, and Jamil Aboud, where they discussed the general situation and recent developments in Lebanon and the region. Slim briefs the parliamentary delegation on the security developments in southern Lebanon and the challenges facing state institutions, particularly the military institution, during this critical phase the country is going through. There was a consensus on the need to respect the Lebanese constitution and all laws and regulations governing the work of state institutions and to refrain from inventing ideas and proposals that do not align with the texts and spirit of the laws.
Additionally, Slim discussed with the Minister of Education and Higher Education in the caretaker government, Abbas Halabi, the functioning of constitutional institutions under these difficult circumstances and the military's role in maintaining security and stability, emphasizing the need to provide everything necessary to fulfill this national duty effectively.
