In a display of international solidarity amidst a devastating conflict, France has pledged €100 million ($108 million) to support Lebanon. The announcement came at a critical international conference convened in Paris on Thursday, where world leaders and organizations gathered to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the war-torn nation.
French President Emmanuel Macron, in his opening address, emphasized the dire need for “massive aid” to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people, both those displaced by the ongoing war with Israel and the communities hosting them. The conference, organized by France, aims to secure financial pledges for humanitarian aid totaling $426 million, a figure deemed urgently necessary by the United Nations.
Adding to the international support, Italy announced new aid of €10 million ($10.8 million) this week, while Germany pledged an additional €60 million ($64.7 million) on Wednesday for the people of Lebanon.
Macron, in a pointed condemnation, criticized Israel for its ongoing military operations in Lebanon, particularly highlighting the escalating civilian casualties. He reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need to halt the bloodshed.
France’s commitment goes beyond immediate humanitarian relief. Paris also seeks to play a key role in restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty and strengthening its institutions. The country, where Hezbollah effectively operates as a state within a state, has been without a president for two years, reflecting the deep political divisions that plague the nation.
However, the French diplomatic approach in the Middle East has not been without its critics. Some question the effectiveness of Macron’s evolving strategy and his communication style, which has at times been perceived as chaotic.
Despite these criticisms, France’s historical ties to Lebanon, a former colony, and its influential diplomacy have positioned Paris as a key player in coordinating international efforts. Rym Montaz, editor in chief of Carnegie Europe’s blog Strategic Europe, underscores the importance of French leadership in bringing together international donors and enabling them to directly hear from those on the ground in Lebanon.
The ongoing war has forced an estimated 800,000 people to flee their homes, with many seeking refuge in overcrowded shelters or crossing into neighboring Syria. The cash-strapped Lebanese government, already struggling with a dire economic crisis, is ill-prepared to cope with the influx of displaced people and the additional strain on its overwhelmed healthcare system.
Macron’s stance on the conflict has hardened in recent weeks, with increasingly vocal criticism of Israel’s actions. He has repeatedly called for a ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza, condemning the “unbearable human toll” of the conflict. This stance has been reinforced through phone calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, where he reiterated his call for a ceasefire.
Tensions have also arisen between France and Israel, particularly following Macron’s call to halt arms exports for use in Gaza. Macron has also vehemently condemned Israel’s alleged deliberate targeting of UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, a claim denied by Israel.
The international conference in Paris brought together ministers and officials from over 70 countries and international organizations, including the European Union and regional partners. Acting Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, who met with Macron prior to the conference, is also in attendance.
France’s vision extends beyond immediate aid. Paris aims to coordinate international support to strengthen Lebanon’s armed forces, enabling them to “deploy more broadly and efficiently” in the country’s south. This strategy could play a key role in a potential peace deal, potentially leading to a withdrawal of Hezbollah forces from the border.
The proposed international support for Lebanon’s military could include equipment, training, and financial aid for troop recruitment and daily operations. This is crucial, as the Lebanese army has been severely weakened by five years of economic crisis, leaving it with an aging arsenal and lacking air defenses. This vulnerability makes it ill-equipped to defend against Israeli incursions or confront Hezbollah, which boasts a more advanced arsenal.
Conference participants will also focus on ways to support the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), a 10,500-strong peacekeeping mission. European nations, including France, Italy, and Spain, contribute a significant portion of UNIFIL’s troops, with Italy particularly advocating for strengthening the peacekeeping force to effectively address the evolving situation on the ground.
The consensus among experts is that a robust Lebanese armed forces, coupled with a strengthened UNIFIL, are essential for achieving lasting peace and stability along the Lebanon-Israel border. France’s efforts to rally international support in this regard are seen as critical for navigating a path towards a sustainable solution to the conflict.