FM Sa’ar tells French counterpart there’s ‘progress’ on Lebanon ceasefire talks

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar speaks with his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot, and tells him that there is “progress” in attempts to reach a ceasefire in Lebanon that will allow Israelis to return to their homes safely.

According to the Foreign Ministry, Sa’ar stresses that implementation of any agreement must be ensured, including keeping Hezbollah away from the border and preventing it from rearming through Syria.

Sa’ar stresses that “the international community has a role to act so that Lebanon will once again belong to the Lebanese people and not to the Iranian regime.”

Barrot tells Sa’ar that France is pushing for a resolution at the International Atomic Energy Agency Board of Governors meeting next week calling for a detailed report on Iran’s violations of its obligations, says the Israeli readout.

Sa’ar emphasizes that immediate steps must be taken against Iran, especially as some in Tehran call for attaining nuclear weapons.

The foreign minister also repeats Israel’s opposition to unilateral steps to create a Palestinian state, and moves against Israel in international bodies.

The two diplomats speak about the France-Israel soccer game tonight, and Barrot stresses the security measures in place to ensure the safety of Israeli fans.