International Diplomatic Efforts to Curb Escalating Middle East Tensions

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed rising tensions in the Middle East. Agreed to urge all parties to exercise restraint to avoid regional turmoil. The conversation followed recent killings of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr.

French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concerns about escalating Middle East tensions during a phone call on Saturday, the French Foreign Ministry reported.

Both diplomats agreed to call on all involved parties to exercise utmost restraint to prevent regional upheaval, urging a lasting ceasefire in Gaza to avoid devastating consequences for the region and peace prospects.

The discussion came after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and the Israeli strike in Beirut, which killed Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr.

(With inputs from agencies.)