French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israel to immediately cease its military operations in Lebanon, according to a press release issued by the Elysee Palace on Wednesday.

Macron expressed deep concern over the civilian toll in the ongoing conflict and emphasized the need to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Macron reaffirmed France’s support for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and announced plans to organize a conference in support of the Lebanese people and their institutions. He highlighted the importance of working toward a long-term resolution that ensures security for populations on both sides of the Blue Line, the UN-demarcated provisional border between Israel and Lebanon.

“The displaced must be able to return home in complete safety, in both Israel and Lebanon,” Macron stated, calling for calm and the exercise of restraint by all parties involved.

The press release also condemned Iran’s recent missile strikes on Israel, reflecting France’s call for de-escalation in the broader regional conflict. On Tuesday, France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs criticized Israeli airstrikes that resulted in numerous civilian casualties, including women and children. (ILKHA)