Foreign ministers from ten countries have voiced concern over the situation in Lebanon, calling for an urgent end to hostilities and a return to political dialogue, according to a joint statement.
"We… call for the inclusion of Lebanon in the regional de-escalation efforts and urge all parties to work toward a lasting political solution," the ministers said.
They warned that the continuation of the war in Lebanon puts at risk current regional de-escalation efforts, which they said, "must be fully respected by all parties."
The ministers welcomed the initiative to open direct talks with Israel and Israel’s acceptance to begin negotiations facilitated by the United States.
"We call on both parties to seize this opportunity," the statement said, adding that direct negotiations can help bring lasting security for Lebanon, Israel and the wider region.
They also urged all parties to "urgently de-escalate and seize the opportunity offered by the ceasefire between the United States and Iran."
The ministers condemned Israeli strikes on Lebanon conducted on April 8, which they said resulted in more than 350 deaths and over 1,000 injuries, citing Lebanese authorities.
"Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law," the statement said.
They also condemned attacks against the UN peacekeeping mission, stressing that "the safety and security of UN peacekeepers must be ensured at all times."
The ministers expressed "full solidarity and steadfast support" for the Lebanese people and authorities and said they stand ready to provide emergency assistance to more than one million displaced persons in Lebanon.
They reaffirmed the importance of respecting Lebanon’s territorial integrity and sovereignty and called for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
The statement also commended the Lebanese government’s decision to ban Hezbollah’s military activities and reinforce state authority, including maintaining a monopoly on weapons.
