The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the “announcement by the Lebanese authorities of achieving the objectives of the first phase of the weapons control plan,” noting that “this progress represents a significant step toward restoring the sovereignty of the Lebanese state over its entire territory and demonstrates the Lebanese authorities’ commitment to their pledges.

It also confirms the pivotal role of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism, in close coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), whose presence and movements remain essential for the stability of southern Lebanon and the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.”

France called on the Lebanese authorities to “proceed decisively with this process by launching the second phase of the plan, to permanently consolidate state authority and ensure the security of the population.”

It also urged Israel to “exercise restraint and refrain from any actions that could escalate tensions.”

Council of Ministers at Baabda Palace (Nabil Ismail).

Moreover, France reiterated its “steadfast support for the Lebanese Armed Forces, which are a fundamental pillar of Lebanon’s sovereignty and stability,” reaffirming its “full commitment to the international conference supporting the Lebanese Armed Forces.”

The statement concluded: “France will continue its efforts, alongside its partners, to support Lebanon on the path to lasting peace, respecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”