France pushes Lebanon-Israel recognition as Beirut moves against Iranian influence

France has proposed a diplomatic framework to end the war in Lebanon that could require Beirut to take the unprecedented step of recognising Israel, according to Western diplomats.

The proposal, first reported by Axios, comes after the Iranian-backed militant group, Hezbollah, fired rockets and drones into Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader.

The plan calls for negotiations between Israel and Lebanon on a political declaration that would include Lebanese recognition of Israel and commitments to prevent attacks from Lebanese territory.

It also envisages the Lebanese Armed Forces redeploying south of the Litani River, Israel withdrawing from areas captured during the current conflict, and international monitoring of Hezbollah’s disarmament.

According to Axios, Lebanon has accepted the French proposal as a basis for talks, reflecting growing concern in Beirut that continued fighting could devastate the country, already struggling with economic…