Ministers warn over escalating violence
Foreign ministers from 17 European countries issued a joint statement, raising alarm over the worsening situation in the Middle East and the renewed escalation in Lebanon.
They said they were “shocked by the dramatic situation,” highlighting that 1.2 million people are now internally displaced — about 25% of the population. Lebanon’s Health Ministry reports that more than 1,000 people have died so far, most of them civilians, including children, humanitarian workers and journalists.
Ministers condemn Hezbollah attacks
The ministers strongly condemned Hezbollah’s decision to attack Israel in support of Iran. They urged Hezbollah to immediately stop all hostile actions against Israel and to disarm in line with UN Security Council resolutions.
Clear call for international law compliance
The ministers also reminded Israel to fully comply with international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution.
They stressed that attacks targeting civilians, healthcare workers, humanitarian staff, journalists and civilian infrastructure are unjustifiable and must stop immediately.
Push for ceasefire and accountability
The ministers highlighted the need for independent investigations to ensure accountability. They called for an immediate halt to both Israeli military operations in Lebanon and Hezbollah attacks.
They urged Israel to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and called on all sides to stop military actions. They also demanded full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to affected populations.
Support for Lebanon and UNIFIL
The ministers backed the Lebanese government’s decision to enforce a state monopoly on weapons and supported efforts to disarm Hezbollah. They also welcomed the March 2, 2026, decision to ban all Hezbollah military and security activities and transfer control of its weapons to the Lebanese Armed Forces.
They praised ongoing reform efforts by the Lebanese government and stressed the need for continued international support for the Lebanese Armed Forces.
They also reaffirmed support for the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and condemned attacks on peacekeepers, including the killing of Indonesian personnel.
Call for diplomacy and stability
The ministers expressed condolences to all victims of violence in Lebanon and Israel. They urged all sides to respect the November 2024 ceasefire agreement and fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
They also called on Israel to accept Lebanon’s request for immediate negotiations, stressing that de-escalation is urgent and diplomacy must prevail. The ministers noted that they have already mobilised significant humanitarian aid and urged the international community to increase support for Lebanon.
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