European Union Studies Sanctions for Lebanese Politicians

Asset freezes and travel bans for Lebanese politicians suspected of obstructing the establishment of the Lebanese government are being prepared by the French government and the European Union, Asharq Al-Awsat reported.

France has led efforts to assist Lebanon but has been unsuccessful in getting the various groups to agree on a cabinet formation, let alone reforms that would allow foreign aid to flow in.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian informed French legislators about specific reforms aimed at those who have abandoned the common good for their own personal benefit.

If Lebanese politicians fail to fulfil their obligations, Le Drian said, "we will not hesitate to assume ours."

He went on to say that the European Union cannot sit by and see Lebanon collapse.

Senior Lebanese officials have been warned that the EU is looking at ways to put pressure on those who are obstructing a solution to the country's political and economic crisis.

Le Drian clarified his position with President Michel Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri, and Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri, according to the French Foreign Ministry.

Two diplomats said Le Drian's team was looking at how the EU could implement the sanctions.