French President Emmanuel Macron publicly urged Israeli Prime Minister*Benjamin Netanyahu to refrain from launching a ground offensive in Lebanon, warning that
such a move would dangerously escalate regional tensions, according to a statement released Wednesday.
In a phone call amid intense fighting across the Middle East, Macron stressed the importance of respecting Lebanon’s territorial integrity and the sovereignty of its government, urging Israel to consider the humanitarian consequences of a broader land invasion. His comments come as Israeli forces advanced into several towns and villages in southern Lebanon, expanding military operations beyond air strikes.
Lebanese officials have reported mounting civilian casualties and displacement, with hundreds of residents killed and tens of thousands forced from their homes in recent days. The escalating conflict has drawn concern from global leaders, including key European allies.
Macron’s appeal highlights France’s deepening involvement in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis. France has recently deployed military assets to the region to safeguard allied positions and support its partners, while also cautioning against actions that could widen the war.
Israel has justified its operations in southern Lebanon as aimed at countering Hezbollah, but Macron and other international figures have warned that a full-scale ground offensive could destabilise the already volatile region and exacerbate civilian suffering.
As diplomatic channels remain active, world powers are watching closely for shifts in strategy that could either deepen the conflict or open space for new negotiations.