Statement by the leaders of Canada, France, Germany,
Italy and the United Kingdom on the escalating conflict between
Israel and Hezbollah.
We are gravely concerned by the escalating violence in Lebanon
and call for meaningful engagement by Israeli and Lebanese
representatives to negotiate a sustainable political solution. We
strongly support initiatives to facilitate talks and urge for
immediate de-escalation.
Hezbollah's attacks on Israel and the targeting of civilians must
cease and they must disarm. We condemn Hezbollah's decision to
join Iran in hostilities, which further jeopardises regional
peace and security.
We condemn attacks directed at civilians, civilian
infrastructure, health workers and infrastructure, as well as the
United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon. These actions are
unacceptable, and we call on all parties to act in accordance
with international humanitarian law.
A significant Israeli ground offensive would have devastating
humanitarian consequences and could lead to a protracted
conflict. It must be averted. The humanitarian situation in
Lebanon, including ongoing mass displacement, is already deeply
alarming.
We reiterate our call for the full implementation of UNSC
Resolution 1701 by all parties and support the efforts of the
Government of Lebanon to disarm Hezbollah, prohibit Hezbollah's
military activities, and curb their armed hostilities. We stand
in solidarity with the Lebanese government and people, who have
been unwillingly drawn into conflict.
