Le Drian warns of 'dangerous' situation in Lebanon, lauds leaders 'courage'

French President's special envoy to Lebanon Jean-Yves Le Drian has warned of "a dangerous situation" in Lebanon, pointing out to divisions inside the country, regarding Israel and Hezbollah.

In an interview Thursday, Le Drian said Lebanon's unity and integrity are at risk, citing the Israeli occupation and accusing Hezbollah of being an Iranian proxy and choosing Iran's interests over Lebanon's.

Le Drian said Israel refused to include France in the Israeli-Lebanese negotiations despite the Lebanese requesting it but welcomed the 45-day truce extension as a window to continue discussions.

The French diplomat lauded the "courage" of President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam for calling for direct negotiations with Israel.