Western Leaders Urge Israel and Lebanon to De-escalate Conflict

Brussels - Western leaders on Monday warned that a potential Israeli ground offensive in southern Lebanon could result in catastrophic humanitarian damage and prolonged conflict, whilst urging all parties to immediately de-escalate.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom expressed “profound concern” over escalating violence in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.

They cautioned that a large-scale ground operation “must be avoided” due to the risk of worsening an already dire humanitarian situation and triggering long-term instability.

“We strongly support initiatives to facilitate dialogue and urge immediate de-escalation,” the leaders stated.

The statement stressed that attacks targeting civilians, healthcare workers, infrastructure, and UN personnel are “unacceptable,” and called on Israeli and Lebanese representatives to engage in meaningful negotiations and act in accordance with international humanitarian law.

“A significant Israeli ground offensive would have catastrophic humanitarian consequences and could lead to prolonged conflict. This must be avoided. The humanitarian situation in Lebanon, including the ongoing mass displacement, is already deeply alarming,” the statement read.

The five nations also reaffirmed their support for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to stabilise the border region and disarm Hezbollah.

The Israeli military expanded air strikes across Lebanon, including the capital Beirut, on 2 March following cross-border attacks by Hezbollah after a joint Washington and Tel Aviv strike against Iran.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed on Monday morning that the military had launched a ground offensive in Lebanon.

The attacks have killed more than 800 people, including women and children, and displaced nearly one million people.