In a significant shift in French policy towards Lebanon, on March 9, 2026, as Israeli strikes had already resulted in nearly 500 deaths in a week, French Minister of Foreign Affairs Jean-Noël Barrot declined six times to say on France Inter whether Israeli bombings were “disproportionate.”
This unusual silence for French diplomacy, typically inclined to support Lebanon during Israeli-Lebanese conflicts due to historical ties, marked a clear change in tone, though it had already begun during previous military operations between Israel and Lebanon from late September to November 2024.
Since the renewed hostilities between Israel and the pro-Iranian Lebanese Hezbollah at the beginning of March, both the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the French presidency issued minimal statements. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “serious concern” over the escalating violence in Lebanon, condemning Hezbollah’s “irresponsible choice” to join Iranian attacks against Israel and calling for restraint from all parties.
Despite the massive Israeli airstrikes resulting in over 1,500 deaths in Lebanon between March 2 and April 7, targeting civilian infrastructure and displacing over 1.1 million Lebanese, France’s moderation was perceived in Tel Aviv as a green light to continue military operations.
The more reserved stance of Emmanuel Macron contrasts with Jacques Chirac’s firm positions during the 2006 war between Hezbollah and Israel. France’s credibility waned by abstaining from denouncing Israeli ceasefire violations negotiated in November 2024, leading to criticism from former French ambassadors and diplomats.
The publication also details France’s diplomatic activities in Lebanon, including providing support and aid to the Lebanese army. However, despite efforts from Macron and other international leaders, the conflict in the region continues, with a recent temporary ceasefire agreement excluding Lebanon.
The article provides a detailed account of the evolving French stance towards the Israeli-Lebanese conflict and the challenges faced in mediating a lasting peace in the region.
