The European Union again calls for an immediate ceasefire between them Hezbollah and your Israel Both parties commit to the full and symmetrical implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 to ensure the safe return of displaced populations on both sides as part of a broader negotiated settlement, says EU High Representative Josep Borrell , in his written statement.
He expressed his regret for many civilian casualties in Lebanonthe destruction of political infrastructures with relevant long-term effects and the high number of internally displaced people on both sides and highlighted that the EU once again calls for respect for International Humanitarian Law in all circumstances. “The weapons must now be silenced and the voice of diplomacy must speak and be heard by everyone”, he stressed.
The High Representative noted that the sovereignty of Israel and Lebanon must be guaranteed, stressing that “any new military intervention would dramatically worsen the situation. The EU is concerned about the risks of further escalation of the conflict across the region and urges all parties in the region to exercise restraint in the interests of de-escalation.”
THE Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) they are called upon to play a crucial role as guarantors of internal and regional stability, Borrell added, while, as he said, “the UN mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) also plays a key stabilization role. The safety and security of UN peacekeepers is paramount.”
Lastly, the High Representative stressed that “in this hour of need, all Lebanese leaders should now put national interests first and work together to restore the functioning of Lebanon’s state institutions, in particular through the election of a president and the formation of a full government. The EU stands ready to help Lebanon consolidate its state institutions and take the necessary measures for its recovery.”
Source: RES/MPE
