Macron Calls for Temporary Halt in Middle East Fighting to Enable Talks

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a temporary pause in fighting across the Middle East, urging all sides to de-escalate tensions and allow space for negotiations amid the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory strikes.

Speaking in Brussels during a meeting of European Union leaders, Macron said hostilities should stop “for at least a few days” to create conditions for diplomatic engagement. His remarks came as the region entered the Muslim holiday period of Eid al-Fitr, a time he suggested could serve as an opportunity for calm.

He emphasized that a short-term pause in fighting could help revive negotiations and reduce the risk of further escalation across the region.

Macron also supported the idea of a temporary moratorium on strikes against civilians and critical infrastructure. He described the ongoing escalation as dangerous and warned that continued attacks risk widening the conflict beyond its current scope.

France, he said, remains committed to supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring dialogue and reducing tensions between the parties involved.

Macron noted that the escalation in Iran should not overshadow the humanitarian situation in Gaza, stressing the need for sustained international attention and support. He also referenced recent conversations with regional leaders, including the emir of Qatar, whose country has been directly affected by strikes on energy infrastructure.

He described the regional situation as increasingly unstable, pointing to recent strikes across Gulf countries as evidence of expanding conflict dynamics.

The French president reiterated France’s support for Lebanon, calling for efforts to preserve its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security.

Macron stressed the importance of strengthening Lebanese state institutions, including its armed forces, to maintain control over weapons and ensure internal stability. He also urged Israel to respect Lebanese sovereignty and avoid actions that could further destabilize the country.

Macron concluded by reaffirming France’s position in favor of negotiation and dialogue as the primary means of resolving regional tensions. He called on all parties to take immediate steps toward de-escalation to prevent further deterioration of the situation in the Middle East.