The United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and their allies have called for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon. This call was made amidst ongoing retaliatory attacks between Israel and Lebanon's armed group, Hezbollah.
The European Union and 11 countries have proposed the immediate implementation of a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon. They believe that this temporary ceasefire is necessary to pursue diplomatic efforts in finding a solution. At the same time, they have also proposed a ceasefire in Gaza.
In a joint statement, they said that such hostility is "intolerable." It carries the risk of causing significant regional tension, which is unacceptable. Neither Israel nor Lebanon will benefit from it.
The United States, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and Qatar signed the joint statement.
The statement was issued following a meeting of world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The joint statement was issued following a speech by Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Halevi to Israeli soldiers. Halevi told his forces that large-scale airstrikes targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon could "pave the way" for their entry into enemy territory. Halevi is the first high-ranking Israeli official to suggest that a ground invasion of Lebanon may be inevitable.
U.S. President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron said in the joint statement that the time has come for a solution that would ensure the safe return of civilians on both sides of the border to their homes.
They expressed concern that the current hostilities carry the risk of escalating into a major conflict and endangering civilians.
Biden and Macron further stated, "In recent days, we have worked together to call for a temporary ceasefire to prevent renewed tension at the border and to facilitate a diplomatic solution."
Earlier, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati said that his country’s sovereignty and human rights situation are clearly being violated due to "the brutal actions of the Israeli enemy."
When asked by Reuters if a ceasefire might occur soon, Mikati responded, "Yes, I hope so."
Additionally, Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations Danny Danon said they respect diplomatic efforts to avoid tension. However, he also noted that Israel will do everything it can, in accordance with international law, to achieve its objectives.
