Macron offers to host direct ceasefire talks between Israel and Lebanon in Paris

French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed hosting direct negotiations between Israel and Lebanon in Paris to prevent escalation of border tensions.

Macron held talks with Lebanon's president, speaker of parliament and prime minister, Anadolu Agency reported on March 14. He emphasized the urgent need to stabilize the country, stating: "All efforts must be made so that Lebanon does not fall into chaos."

The French president called on Hezbollah to immediately cease its military actions and urged Israel to refrain from escalating the conflict. He noted that Lebanon has announced its readiness for direct negotiations with Israel and encouraged Israel to seize the opportunity to achieve a ceasefire and lasting solution.

France is prepared to facilitate the talks in Paris to help the parties implement commitments preserving Lebanon's sovereignty.

The proposal comes amid ongoing exchanges of fire. Hezbollah has been targeting Israeli military objectives since March 2, while Israel has carried out airstrikes on south Beirut and southern and eastern regions of Lebanon.