US, EU, Arab coalition urges 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon amid rising violence
Protesters carry flags near the entrance leading to parliament building, in support of independent lawmakers who are staging a sit-in at parliament to pile pressure on dominant factions to elect a new president, in Beirut, Lebanon January 20, 2023. (Reuters Photo)
A coalition comprising the United States, European Union, and several Arab nations has called for a 21-day “temporary ceasefire” in Lebanon following a surge of Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah that have raised alarms about a broader regional conflict.
The violence has claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands, with the Lebanese health ministry reporting that an additional 72 individuals were killed on Wednesday. The toll underscores the urgent need for a halt to hostilities.
In a joint statement, the coalition, which includes Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, urged for an immediate ceasefire. “It is time to conclude a diplomatic settlement that enables civilians on both sides of the border to return to their homes in safety,” the statement read.
The coalition emphasized that “diplomacy, however, cannot succeed amid an escalation of this conflict,” reinforcing the call for a ceasefire to create a conducive environment for negotiations.
The United Nations has been active in addressing the crisis, with Wednesday marked by heightened diplomatic engagements amid its annual world leaders’ week. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot highlighted a proposal for a three-week truce during an emergency UN Security Council session, aimed at paving the way for further dialogue and a more lasting resolution.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has voiced his concerns, calling for an immediate ceasefire while warning that “hell is breaking loose” in Lebanon.
In reaction to these appeals, Israeli officials have indicated a willingness to engage in diplomacy but have not committed to the ceasefire proposal, affirming their intent to continue military operations against Hezbollah.
