It’s a sequence that speaks volumes about the shift in French policy towards Lebanon. On March 9, 2026, while Israeli strikes had already claimed nearly 500 lives in a week in the land of the Cedars, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot refused six times to say on France Inter whether the Israeli bombings were “disproportionate.”
Unusual silence and deflection for French diplomacy, usually inclined to support Lebanon during Israeli-Lebanese conflicts, due to their historical ties. The change in tone was clear, although it had already begun in previous military operations between Israel and Lebanon.
A hesitant position that contrasts with the past. Since the renewed hostilities between Israel and the pro-Iranian Lebanese Hezbollah, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the French presidency have made minimal statements. The Quai d’Orsay expressed concern about the escalating violence in Lebanon, condemning Hezbollah’s actions but refraining from denouncing the massive Israeli strikes that killed over 1,500 people and displaced more than 1.1 million Lebanese.
Former diplomats criticize the current diplomatic approach, which seems complacent towards Israel. The hesitation of President Emmanuel Macron is different from his predecessors like Jacques Chirac, known for taking a firm stance in similar situations.
Now, the challenge lies in achieving a ceasefire that includes Lebanon. Amid renewed violence, where French support has wavered, crucial decisions on international peace efforts will determine the future course of actions in the region.
