Lebanon: Statement by the High Representative on the recent developments

Lebanon risks becoming another front in the war with Iran. Hezbollah’s decision to attack Israel in support of Iran endangers the entire region and adds a deadly dimension. Israel has the right to self-defence in line with international law. All proxies that join the war make themselves legitimate targets. Hezbollah must disarm and cease all actions against Israel.

At the same time, Israel’s response has been heavy-handed. Its retaliation is causing mass displacement and is further destabilising a fragile situation. It risks drawing Lebanon and its people into a war that is not theirs, with severe humanitarian consequences. Israel should cease its operations in Lebanon. Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity must be respected. 

Diplomacy and a return to the ceasefire offer the best chance of averting Lebanon from sliding into chaos. The European Union fully supports UNIFIL in carrying out its mandate. The safety of UN peacekeepers must be guaranteed. 

Preventing further loss of life, displacement, and regional escalation are immediate priorities. This requires all parties to respect international law, including international humanitarian law, and ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. 

We continue to stand by Lebanon and its people, and the EU will draw on its emergency reserves to assist some 130,000 affected. We also express our condolences to the families of the victims impacted by the violence.