- Global allies call for 21-day ceasefire across Lebanon-Israel border
- The allies suggest a pause will allow room for diplomatic efforts in Lebanon and Gaza
- A joint statement called the current violence “intolerable”
Global allies call for 21-day ceasefire across Lebanon-Israel border
A coalition of global allies, including the UK, US, and EU, is urging for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon following an escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The 12-nation group has proposed an immediate 21-day pause in hostilities to allow room for diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a lasting peace, along with a broader ceasefire in Gaza.
In a joint statement, the bloc described the current violence as “intolerable” and warned that the situation posed an “unacceptable risk of a broader regional escalation,” which would harm both Israeli and Lebanese interests.
This appeal comes after Israel’s military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, informed troops that extensive airstrikes targeting Hezbollah in Lebanon could be a precursor to a ground invasion. His comments mark one of the clearest indications yet that Israel may soon send troops into Lebanese territory.
The ceasefire proposal was backed by the United Kingdom, the EU, Australia, Canada, the US, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. It follows discussions at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where global leaders gathered to address the intensifying conflict.
In a separate joint statement, US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the urgency of a diplomatic solution. They called for a settlement that “ensures safety and security” so civilians can safely return to their homes, warning that the conflict risks expanding further and inflicting greater harm on civilians.