France urges Israel to respect Lebanon ceasefire, calls for US pressure

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot on Friday said Israel must respect its commitments under a ceasefire framework in Lebanon and called on the United States to apply "all necessary pressure" to ensure compliance, warning that the region faces prolonged instability without a full agreement.

Ceasefire obligations

Speaking to Franceinfo, Barrot emphasized that Washington must pressure Israel to adhere to the truce terms. "The first principle of the agreement is the cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon," he said, adding that implementation required continued technical-level discussions following recent diplomatic developments in Europe. He noted that priority now lay in ensuring the full execution of the agreement’s final steps, including measures related to regional stability and security guarantees.

Regional instability risks

Barrot warned that without a comprehensive deal, the region risked prolonged instability. He added that the agreement was necessary to prevent further escalation and economic fallout linked to energy routes, according to the French foreign ministry. The warning comes amid ongoing tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border despite the ceasefire framework established late last year.

Paris mediation efforts

Barrot stressed that France would remain engaged in diplomatic efforts and coordination with international partners as implementation moves forward. Paris has maintained a central role in mediation efforts between Israel and Lebanon, working alongside Washington to secure the ceasefire terms. Technical teams from both sides are expected to continue discussions in the coming days to address remaining security arrangements.