Beirut, Lebanon – UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on Israel to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and cease military operations. He warned that the continuation of the war could lead to further destruction and threaten the stability of the entire region.
Speaking from the Lebanese capital, Beirut, Guterres said that respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is an indispensable foundation for any path toward de-escalation. He stressed that civilians are paying the heaviest price as the military escalation continues.
He added that the region is facing a dangerous moment that requires swift international action to stop the fighting. He emphasized that military solutions will not bring security or stability. He explained that the only way out of the crisis is a ceasefire and a return to the diplomatic track.
The UN Secretary-General noted that Lebanon is facing significant humanitarian and economic challenges. He stressed that the escalation of military operations is further complicating the situation and threatens to drag the region into a wider, potentially uncontrollable confrontation.
He called on all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could broaden the conflict. He emphasized that the international community is obligated to intensify its efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent the crisis from worsening.
Guterres’s remarks come at a time of heightened military tensions in southern Lebanon. This is occurring amidst international concerns that the clashes could escalate into a wider regional conflict, threatening the security and stability of the Middle East.
