Issued on: 21/04/2026 - 15:23Modified: 21/04/2026 - 16:05

As French President Emmanuel Macron is hosting Nawaf Salam, the Lebanese Prime Minister, here in Paris, Genie Godula is pleased to welcome Salah Hijazi, Deputy Head of Politics at L’Orient-Le Jour. Drawing on historical ties rooted in culture, diplomacy and religion, he examines how France’s traditional position as a mediator has shifted in recent years. While France once played a central role in brokering agreements, notably during the 2006 Lebanon War, it now finds itself increasingly sidelined due to regional realignments and strained relations with Israel.

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