France and the United States are intensifying efforts to prevent further escalation in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Hezbollah, as tensions continue to rise in the region. President Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden have made it a key priority to calm the situation and avoid a regional explosion, with a focus on Lebanon.
During a state visit for President Biden in Paris, the two leaders discussed a range of pressing issues, including the conflict in Gaza, the war in Ukraine, and international trade. Macron emphasized the need to work on “advancing parameters” to reduce tensions and address the institutional vacuum in Lebanon.
The visit coincided with a significant development in Gaza, where four Israeli hostages were freed in a special operation by the Israeli military. The hostages, Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv, were rescued in Nuseirat city. However, the same day saw a tragic loss of life, with at least 210 Palestinians, including children, killed in the area.
Both Macron and Biden welcomed the hostage rescue operation and reiterated their commitment to working towards a ceasefire and the safe return of all hostages. Biden, a staunch supporter of Israel, emphasized the need to continue efforts until a lasting peace is achieved.
The day’s events included a ceremony at the Arc de Triomphe, where the leaders paid their respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, followed by a drive down the Avenue des Champs-Elysees to the Elysee Palace. The day concluded with a dinner at the French presidential palace, attended by celebrities, political figures, and business leaders.
Despite past tensions, Macron and Biden share a warm relationship and are aligned in their support for Ukraine and opposition to Russian President Vladimir Putin. They also discussed trade issues, including the US’s Inflation Reduction Act, and the need to cooperate on countering China’s economic practices.
Meanwhile, back in Washington, DC, thousands of protesters gathered near the White House to demonstrate against what they perceive as Biden’s tolerance of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Chanting slogans and holding banners with the names of Palestinians killed in the conflict, the protesters expressed their frustration with US policy in the region.
The visit highlighted the complex geopolitical challenges facing the international community, with the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent further violence in the Middle East. As Macron and Biden continue to collaborate on these issues, the world watches closely for any developments that could impact the fragile situation in the region.