France on Revolutionary Guard Presence in Lebanon, Syria: We Reject Violation of their Sovereignty

The French Foreign Ministry stressed on Tuesday the importance of maintaining Lebanon and Syria's sovereignty and unity.

Spokesman Philippe Laleu said of claims that members of Iran's Revolutionary Guards may be in Lebanon and Syria that Paris condemns all that can harm the sovereignty of either country.

The head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Mohammed Ali Jaafari had stated on Sunday that members of its Quds Force were present in Lebanon and Syria to play a “counselor” role.

He denied that they are providing military assistance in both countries.

On Monday, the Iranian Foreign Ministry denied his remarks, saying they were taken out of context.

President Michel Suleiman had summoned on Monday the Iranian ambassador to Lebanon to ask for an official clarification of the remarks.