France has advanced a diplomatic initiative aimed at bringing the ongoing conflict between Lebanon and Israel to an end, with proposals that could ultimately require Beirut to formally recognise the Israeli state.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the initiative envisages negotiations between the two countries that would culminate in a political declaration. Such a document would include Lebanese recognition of Israel alongside commitments from Beirut to prevent attacks launched from its territory.
In return, Israel would withdraw from areas seized during the current hostilities, while the Lebanese Armed Forces would redeploy south of the Litani River. The plan also outlines international oversight mechanisms intended to ensure the disarmament of Hezbollah.
Diplomatic momentum behind the proposal follows an escalation triggered when Hezbollah, which is supported by Iran, launched rockets and drones toward Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader.
The initiative was first reported by Axios, and diplomats say the Lebanese government has accepted the proposal as a basis for further negotiations, reflecting concerns that continued fighting could inflict severe damage on a country already grappling with economic collapse and prolonged political paralysis.
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israel to enter direct talks with Lebanon, offering Paris as a venue for negotiations and signalling France’s readiness to act as mediator.
Beirut moves to curb Iranian influence
While diplomatic efforts are under way, Lebanese authorities have also taken a series of domestic measures aimed at reasserting state authority and limiting the presence of Iranian-linked actors in the country.
During a cabinet meeting on 5 March, the government instructed security agencies to investigate the activities of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and detain any operatives identified on Lebanese soil prior to their expulsion.
The directive requires the defence and interior ministries, along with municipal and internal security bodies, to identify IRGC personnel and prevent them from conducting any military or security activity within the country regardless of how they are operating or what affiliations they claim. Lebanese officials say the order is intended to reinforce national sovereignty and protect the population from the risks of a broader regional confrontation.
The move follows an earlier government decision declaring Hezbollah’s independent military operations illegal and reaffirming Beirut’s intention to place all armed activity under state control. Taken together, these steps amount to one of the most direct challenges in years by the Lebanese state to Hezbollah and the Iranian networks supporting it.
Officials in Beirut say Iran’s Quds Force has long maintained a presence in Lebanon through a specialised formation sometimes referred to as the “Lebanon Corps”, which assists Hezbollah with military, financial and political operations. Security sources say Iranian backing has played a major role in enabling Hezbollah to develop advanced weapons systems, including precision-guided missiles, alongside providing training, intelligence and funding.
The government’s actions coincide with reports that Israel is weighing the possibility of expanding its military campaign. Israeli and American officials say preparations are under way for a potential large-scale ground operation south of the Litani River aimed at dismantling Hezbollah’s military infrastructure.
Such an operation could become the most significant Israeli ground incursion into Lebanon since the war of 2006.
