France and the European Union are preparing proposals that could result in a freeze of assets and a travel ban on Lebanese politicians, according to Reuters. The move aims to push politicians to agree on forming a government that addresses the multitude of challenges that have rocked Lebanon in the past few months.
The European Union has been providing key political and humanitarian support for Lebanon, with France pushing hardest for this, but local political forces have failed to agree on a new cabinet.
"Concrete proposals are being prepared against the same people who have abandoned the common good for their own interests," French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told lawmakers on Wednesday (7 April).
The French minister added that if some Lebanese political actors do not assume their responsibilities, "we will not hesitate to take our responsibilities in this regard".
The sanctions, facilitated by the EU could include travel bans and asset freezing.
In the meantime the Arab League said it was ready to do anything to resolve the current Lebanese crisis and to reach a solution agreeable to all the Lebanese parties.
The Assistant Secretary-General of the Arab League, Hossam Zaki, confirmed the League's readiness to bridge the current rift, leading to a solution that enabled the prime minister-designate, Saad Hariri, to form a government.
Source: commonspace.eu with Reuters (London) and various agencies.
Picture: Protests continue in Lebanon. (Twitter: @ChristianNewz).
