France calls on the Israeli authorities to show the utmost restraint [fr]

Mr. President,

I would like to thank Ms DiCarlo and Mr Türk for their briefings, and I would like to welcome the presence among us of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lebanon.

France is gravely concern following the explosions of telecommunications devices on 17 and 18 September in Lebanon.

The risk of an open war with potentially tragic consequences is growing every day. Such a prospect must be avoided at all costs. It is urgent that all parties work towards de-escalation. Resolution 2749 adopted on 28 August to renew UNIFIL’s mandate clearly calls for this: this resolution calls upon all stakeholders to take immediate steps towards de-escalation, and demands the full implementation of the framework recognised by all, namely Resolution 1701, including the restauration of a complete cessation of hostilities. These resolutions must be complied with by all.

To that end, we call upon the Israeli authorities to exercise utmost restraint, following their recent declarations on their military operations in Lebanon. We also reiterate our demand that Hezbollah immediately cease its attacks against Israeli territory.

Finally, it is essential that all parties meet their obligations under international humanitarian law, specifically with regard to the protection of civilians.

France is continuing its efforts to identify the conditions for an agreement to return to a cessation of hostilities along the Blue Line, in accordance with Resolution 1701, and to ensure the safety of civilian populations in both Israel and Lebanon.

Thank you.