France, Its Resolution, and the Middle East Crisis

France has balked more than most European countries in their displeasure with how Mr. Bush is (mis)handling the Middle East crisis; they refused to sit down in a meeting where the international peacekeeping force was to be discussed (with - as I mentioned yesterday - the U.S. as coordinator which presents a problem for some countries right there) although France says it is most willing to provide personnel as peacekeepers.

France has also circulated a resolution of their own regarding the conflict where Israel is pounding Lebanon in its efforts to "wipe out" Hezbollah (like that will happen). But, as France is no doubt aware, the U.S. in the Bush years listens to no one except the prime minister of Israel, Ehud Olmert.

Here's WaPo's summary of the French resolution:

The new draft reiterates France and other nations' call "for an immediate cessation of hostilities," and emphasizes "a lasting solution to the current crisis between Israel and Lebanon."

The conditions include: release of the two Israeli soldiers whose abduction sparked the current fighting; "settlement of the issue of the Lebanese prisoners detained in Israel;" and marking the international borders of Lebanon, including in the disputed area known as Chebaa Farms.

The resolution requires the disarmament of all militias in Lebanon and the extension of the Lebanese government's authority throughout southern Lebanon, which is now controlled by Hezbollah.

It includes establishment of a buffer zone where only Lebanese security forces and U.N.-mandated international forces would be allowed.