PARIS, April 17 : French President Emmanuel Macron has expressed his “full support” for the ten-day truce between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, while cautioning that it may already be under strain due to ongoing military operations.
“I also express my concern that it may already be undermined by the continuation of military operations,”
Macron wrote on social media. “I call for the safety of civilian populations on both sides of the border. Hezbollah must renounce its weapons. Israel must respect Lebanese sovereignty and stop the war.”
Later today in Paris, Macron and UK Labour leader Keir Starmer are set to chair a virtual meeting of around 40 countries, aiming to establish a multilateral mission to secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Both Israel and Lebanon have welcomed the truce, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describing it as an “opportunity to make a historic peace agreement.” The agreement is set to last ten days, with potential extensions if negotiations progress.
The U.S. State Department outlined key provisions stipulating that Israel retains the “right to take all necessary measures in self-defense” against ongoing or imminent attacks.
Lebanon must prevent attacks by Hezbollah and other non-state armed groups while Lebanese security forces hold sole responsibility for the country’s security.
Both sides requested continued US-facilitated talks to resolve remaining issues. The truce is described as a “gesture of goodwill” from Israel to enable negotiations toward a permanent peace. Hezbollah has signaled willingness to participate, calling for a “comprehensive halt to attacks” and restrictions on Israeli troop movement.
Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary-General Ant nio Guterres welcomed the ceasefire, thanking the U.S. for its role in facilitating it.
He expressed hope that it will lead to long-term conflict resolution and urged all parties to respect the truce and adhere to international law.
(UNI)
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