After many threats and unheeded warnings, France has decided to take action against Lebanese politicians responsible for the political and economic crisis.
“We have decided to act together to put pressure on those responsible. We know who they are,” French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said in a news conference with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, reported AFP.
Blinken stressed that “the Lebanese people demand an end to corruption practiced by the political class” and that the West needs to see “real leadership in Beirut.”
France is reportedly also considering joining the U.S. in sanctioning Gebran Bassil.
Both France and the U.S. have been warning about imposing sanctions and travel bans to put pressure on those obstructing government formation. They have yet to make actual moves that could bring an end to what is paralyzing the country.
This new push now comes after European Union foreign policy chief, Josep Borell, visited Lebanon last week in what was the Lebanese politicians’ last chance before sanctions. He was bewildered that the crisis was caused by a dispute over the distribution of power.
