Macron Urges Israel To Abandon 'Territorial Ambitions' In Lebanon

PARIS, April 22 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron said Tuesday that Israel must "renounce its territorial ambitions" in Lebanon, calling for a political settlement to ensure regional stability, Xinhua reported.

Speaking at a press conference after meeting with visiting Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Macron urged a "political agreement" between Israel and Lebanon to guarantee security for both countries, safeguard Lebanon's territorial integrity, and pave the way for normalised relations.

Macron also warned that the European Union (EU) could reconsider its ties with Israel if its policies remain unchanged. He said suspending the EU-Israel Association Agreement – which has governed trade relations since 2000 – would become a "legitimate question" under such circumstances.

Addressing broader regional tensions, Macron called for extending negotiations between the United States and Iran, stressing that "war must not be allowed to resume."

For his part, Salam reiterated Lebanon's demand for the "complete withdrawal" of Israeli forces from its territory, along with the return of Lebanese prisoners and displaced persons. 

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA