Beirut, Lebanon – Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam warned of the dangers of the ongoing Israeli escalation in southern Lebanon. He stressed that the recent developments on the ground pose a grave threat to efforts aimed at stabilizing the situation and preventing further escalation. Salam said the Israeli escalation has targeted several areas in the south, including Nabatieh, Ansar, Deir Zahrani, and surrounding villages. He added that airstrikes and shelling have caused widespread anxiety among residents. He noted that the continued military operations are hindering political and security efforts to de-escalate the situation.
The Lebanese Prime Minister stressed that targeting residential areas and causing civilian casualties exacerbates the already dire situation. He emphasized that women and children can never be considered military targets. He added that protecting civilians must be a priority amidst the escalating tensions. Salam also stressed that the security of the Lebanese people and their right to life on their land are non-negotiable. He affirmed the necessity of respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and working to de-escalate the situation and prevent the region from being drawn into a wider confrontation.
This comes as the Lebanese government seeks to consolidate calm in the south and strengthen state institutions. This is occurring amid concerns that continued strikes and tensions on the ground could undermine the diplomatic process and derail efforts to achieve lasting stability. Salam noted that the ongoing escalation is compounding the burdens on Lebanon and increasing the risks faced by civilians in the southern regions. He stressed that political and diplomatic solutions remain the most effective way to prevent further deterioration. Beirut also fears that continued escalation could widen the scope of the confrontations and draw new areas into the conflict. Meanwhile, the government affirms its commitment to protecting citizens, preserving state sovereignty, and working to keep Lebanon out of any wider regional confrontation.
