Several allies, including the US, UK, and EU, have called for a temporary ceasefire in Lebanon as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah has intensified. A coalition of 12 nations has suggested an immediate 21-day halt in hostilities to create space for diplomatic efforts toward a broader peace agreement and a ceasefire in Gaza.
In a joint statement, the group described the ongoing violence as “intolerable” and warned of the “unacceptable risk of a wider regional conflict,” which they said would not benefit either Israel or Lebanon. This follows comments from Israel’s military chief on Wednesday, hinting that increased airstrikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon might lead to a ground offensive.
Lt. Gen. Halevi’s statements are seen as the clearest signal yet of a possible invasion of Lebanon. The joint declaration was endorsed by the US, Australia, Canada, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK, and Qatar, following discussions at the UN General Assembly in New York.
In a separate announcement, US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron called for a resolution that ensures safety for civilians and allows them to return to their homes. They warned that the current fighting could escalate into a larger conflict, with severe consequences for civilians.
Biden and Macron have worked together on a joint initiative for a temporary ceasefire to allow diplomacy to succeed and prevent further escalation. President Biden briefly addressed reporters, noting strong support from both European and Arab nations to keep the war from spreading further.
A senior US official told the BBC that Israel and Lebanon have not yet accepted the proposal, but negotiations with both governments are ongoing, with formal responses expected soon. The official noted that the 21-day pause would provide a window for further talks to reach a complex agreement. The US is working with the Lebanese government, which would be responsible for engaging with Hezbollah and other non-state actors.
