Lebanon’s Political Scene: Between Strategic Tutelage and Historical Legacy

The report analyzes the differences between the US and French approaches to the Lebanese crisis amid regional escalation, ongoing Israeli attacks, and the erosion of mechanisms for implementing Resolution 1701. Washington links Lebanon to Israeli security, curbing Iranian influence, and pushing for strict security arrangements, pressure, and reforms, while Paris relies on its historical and diplomatic role and the UN umbrella to support the state and army. The report examines divergent European positions, obstacles to building an international border security structure, the approaching end of UNIFIL’s mandate and its phased withdrawal during 2027, and a new EU decision to support Lebanon.