rules laid down at the Hague in 1907’ and at Geneva in 1949.’ 9. Fragile cease-fires have of course been estab- lished, but they have most often been honoured in the breach. The city of Beirut has very frequently been bombed, without any distinction being made between civilian and military targets. IO. It was to spare the civilian populations of Beirut further intolerable suffering that the President of the French Republic, on 24 June, made a solemn appeal to the combatants to observe the requirements of the cease-fire. At that time, Mr. Fransois Mitterrand stated the need for a disengagement “between all the forces now in action in west Beirut and on its periph- ery and for the Lebanese army to be allowed to inter- pose itself, with the backing, if the legitimate Govern- ment so desires, of a force constituted under the auspices of the Security Council.” On 25 June, those ideas were set forth in a draft resolution sponsored by France [s//52.S.S//?~~.2], but in spite of a near unanimity of votes in favour, the Council was unable to adopt it [.VCJC> 2381st mrrtinayj. We remain con- vinced, however, that that dc ,firc.tcl neutralization of Beirut constituted not only the most obvious way to spare many human lives, but also the first step towards a broader settlement in the interests of Lebanon and of peace in the area. I I. Since 25 June, we have unfortunately l~~i~d~ no progress towards peace. The threat of an attack. preceded by the most lethal bombardments, continuci to hang over besieged west Beirut. The French Gov- ernment rejects such an eventuality with horror. 12. While paying a tribute to those who have becfl striving to bring about a dialogue that could lead to a loosening of the noose of fire and iron that is SWW 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a diplomatic statement discussing the situation in Beirut, Lebanon, and the efforts to establish a ceasefire and bring about peace. The language used is formal and focused on the humanitarian and political aspects of the crisis, with no mention of economic or industrial issues.

**Category**
Humanitarian aid and relief, International relations