Jean-Yves Le Drian, France's special envoy for Lebanon, is set to arrive in Beirut on Wednesday as Paris attempts to reassert its waning diplomatic influence in the country, according to analysts.

The former French foreign minister will meet with President Joseph Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Talks are expected to focus on continued aid for communities affected by Lebanon's economic collapse, Israel's invasion and occupation of one-fifth of the country, and the future of the UN peacekeeping force UNIFIL, whose mandate expires this year.

Israel renewed heavy strikes on Lebanon in early March after Hezbollah rockets targeted northern Israel. Despite a US-brokered ceasefire in April, daily attacks persist. Over 3,000 people have been killed and more than a million displaced.

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke by phone with US President Donald Trump on Monday, signaling Paris's desire to remain involved in diplomatic efforts amid reports that Trump prevented imminent Israeli strikes on Beirut.

Analysts say France is wary of US overreach in Lebanon and seeks to preserve its influence, particularly as UNIFIL's future becomes uncertain. France has long viewed Lebanon as a strategic foothold in the Middle East, rooted in colonial ties and cultural alliances with Christian communities.

French interests are also economic: TotalEnergies is involved in gas exploration, and shipping giant CMA CGM sees the Port of Beirut as part of a broader Mediterranean logistics network.

However, France's role remains contentious. Some factions aligned with Hezbollah view Paris with suspicion. Analysts note that France is not competing with Washington but rather trying to avoid complete marginalization.

One of France's key remaining leverages is the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission. French officials are exploring options for a multinational force to succeed UNIFIL, a topic likely to be discussed during Le Drian's visit.

Source: www.aljazeera.com