On the first anniversary of Hamas’ attack on Israel, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot emphasized that “force alone is not enough to ensure Israel’s security.” Speaking from Jerusalem on Monday, Barrot declared that it is “time for diplomacy” as the conflict in Gaza extended into Lebanon. After meeting with his Israeli counterpart, Yisrael Katz, Barrot said Hezbollah bears significant responsibility for the escalation of violence in Lebanon.
Barrot warned that violence in Lebanon could push the already fragile country into a state of perpetual chaos, which further threatens Israel’s security. He criticized Hezbollah for dragging Lebanon into a war it did not choose. According to Barrot, the anniversary of October 7 serves as a reminder of France’s unwavering commitment to Israel’s security, stating that this has always been, and will continue to be, a steadfast French position.
Barrot highlighted that France mobilized its military resources in April and again in October to assist Israel in defending against unacceptable ballistic missile attacks from Iran. He also reaffirmed France’s leadership in global efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and to counter its destabilizing regional agenda.
Later, Barrot met with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa in Ramallah, the seat of the Palestinian Authority in the occupied West Bank. The visit follows heightened tensions between France and Israel after French President Emmanuel Macron angered Israeli officials by asserting that “the priority today is to return to a political solution and cease arms supplies for the battles in Gaza.” Macron stressed that France does not deliver weapons to Gaza. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Yisrael Katz called the suggestion of a weapons embargo on Israel “shameful.”
