France, US urge restraint amid Middle East escalation, concerned over Lebanon

France and the United States on September 19 issued a joint call for de-escalation in the Middle East, with particular concern over Lebanon, as tensions with Israel and Hezbollah intensified. The call comes as both nations continue efforts to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas amid an ongoing deadly conflict in Gaza.

Speaking at a press conference following a meeting with French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of restraint, Caliber.Az reports, citing the US Department of State.

"France and the United States are united in calling for restraint, and urging de-escalation when it comes to the Middle East in general, and when it comes to Lebanon in particular," Blinken stated. "We continue to work to get a ceasefire for Gaza over the finish line … We believe that remains both possible and necessary, but meanwhile, we do not want to see any escalatory actions by any party that make that more difficult."

Outgoing French Foreign Minister Sejourne echoed Blinken’s concerns, noting the increasing volatility in Lebanon.

"We are very worried about the situation, so much so that we coordinated to send a message of de-escalation (inaudible). Lebanon would not recover from a total war," Sejourne said. He also expressed strong support for the Lebanese people, stressing the need for all parties involved to act with caution and avoid inflaming the situation further.

Explosions in Lebanon

Tensions in Lebanon have escalated following a series of explosions that rocked the country this week. On September 18, blasts targeting “ICOM” wireless devices led to 25 deaths and 450 injuries across Lebanon. These incidents followed similar explosions on Tuesday, which hit pager devices, killing 12 people, including two children, and leaving 2,800 injured, with 300 in critical condition.

The Lebanese government, along with Hezbollah, has placed responsibility for the blasts on Israel, with Hezbollah threatening “severe consequences” in response.

There has been no official comment from Israel regarding the explosions. However, the incidents come amid heightened cross-border warfare between Israel and Hezbollah, which has surged since Israel's military campaign against the Gaza Strip began in the aftermath of a Hamas attack on October 7. The Gaza conflict has resulted in the deaths of nearly 41,300 people, predominantly women and children.