10 countries call for 21-day emergency cease-fire on Israel-Lebanon border

A joint statement led by the U.S. and France, and backed by the European Union along with eight other nations, calls for a 21-day emergency cease-fire between Israel and Lebanon to allow diplomacy to take place.

The statement was supported by countries including Australia, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the international call for a cease-fire, emphasizing that the key element is Israel's response and commitment to the appeal. The conflict, ongoing since Oct. 8, 2023, poses significant regional risks, according to the statement.

Smoke rises over southern Lebanon following Israeli strikes, amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, as seen from Tyre, southern Lebanon September 23, 2024. (Reuters Photo)Smoke rises above Lebanon, following an Israeli strike, amid ongoing cross-border hostilities between Hezbollah and Israeli forces, as seen from Israel's border with Lebanon in northern Israel, May 5, 2024. (Reuters Photo)Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike hit the Tyre, in southern Lebanon on September 19, 2024. (AA Photo)

The joint declaration highlights the urgent need for a cease-fire, stating, "The situation is intolerable and unacceptable, increasing the risk of broader regional tensions." It emphasizes that a diplomatic agreement is necessary to allow civilians on both sides of the border to return home.

The appeal also urges Israel and Lebanon to support the ceasefire in line with U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, stressing the importance of diplomacy in resolving the conflict.

September 26, 2024 12:01 PM GMT+03:00