On October 13, 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron urged Iranian President Massoud Bezhakian to support a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon, where the Israeli army is engaged in conflict with Hezbollah, an Iranian-backed group. The French presidency stated that Macron emphasized Iran's responsibility to promote stability and use its influence to encourage peace among destabilizing parties.
During the conversation, the Iranian president's office reported discussions on securing a ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel. Bezhakian requested Macron to collaborate with other European nations to pressure Israel to halt its attacks in Gaza and Lebanon, while Israel maintains that it is acting in self-defense.
Macron also highlighted the urgent need for a ceasefire in Lebanon during a call with Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, reiterating the necessity for immediate action to stop hostilities. He expressed significant concern regarding the intensification of Israeli strikes in Lebanon and their devastating impact on civilians.
Many countries, including the United States and several European nations, classify Hezbollah as a terrorist organization. Germany designated the group as a terrorist entity in 2020. Similarly, Hamas, a Palestinian Islamist militant group, is also labeled as a terrorist organization by multiple countries, including Germany and the EU.
In Iraq, President Abdul Latif Rashid declared on October 14, 2024, that Iraq rejects being a launchpad for aggression against neighboring states and opposes any violations targeting its cities and villages. During a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Rashid underscored the importance of Iraq-Iran relations.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani stated that Iraq is making every effort to facilitate a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon in collaboration with international partners, particularly from the EU. He noted that these efforts are ultimately aimed at ensuring Iraq's national security and regional stability.
Araghchi expressed Iran's appreciation for Iraq's positions in calming tensions and acknowledged the humanitarian assistance provided to victims in Gaza and Lebanon. He confirmed that the purpose of his visit to Baghdad was to further coordinate efforts and consult on the situation.