President Emmanuel Macron of France and President Joe Biden of the United States have expressed a commitment to working together to prevent a broader escalation in the Middle East. Macron emphasized the importance of avoiding a regional explosion, with a key priority being to calm the situation between Israel and Hezbollah. Both countries are redoubling their efforts to reduce tensions and end an institutional vacuum in Lebanon.
France and the United States have been actively engaged in trying to defuse tensions in the region. Paris has submitted written proposals to both Israel and Hezbollah, while Washington has also been involved in addressing the issue. Macron highlighted the close coordination between the two countries in discussions with Israel on one side and with Lebanon and all parties involved on the other side.
While Macron pointed out Iran’s strategy of escalation in the region, including attacks on Israel and the development of its nuclear program, Biden did not specifically mention Lebanon or Iran in the joint statement. However, both leaders are determined to exert necessary pressure to counter this trend. Despite some reservations from the U.S., France, Britain, and Germany recently passed a resolution against Iran over its nuclear program at the U.N. nuclear watchdog’s Board of Governors.
President Biden’s state visit to France, following the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of D-Day, includes discussions on trade, Israel, and Ukraine. The visit is marked by pomp and ceremonial events, as well as substantive talks on critical issues affecting the Middle East and beyond.
The collaboration between France and the United States to prevent escalation in the Middle East, particularly in Lebanon, demonstrates a commitment to peace and stability in the region. Despite challenges and differing perspectives, both countries are actively engaged in addressing tensions and working towards a peaceful resolution. The joint efforts to calm the situation between Israel and Hezbollah, along with broader discussions on Iran and other regional issues, highlight the importance of international cooperation in maintaining security and peace in the Middle East.