U.S. President Joe Biden has requested that Israel refrain from targeting peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, according to U.S. media reports.
On the other hand, French President Emmanuel Macron stated that halting the export of weapons used in Gaza and Lebanon is the only way to stop the conflict, emphasizing that France will not tolerate Israel’s intentional targeting of UNIFIL forces again.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that he has reassured his Israeli counterpart of America’s commitment to preventing any party from exploiting the tension or expanding the conflict in the region. He noted that American forces are well-prepared to defend their soldiers, partners, and allies against attacks from Iran and its proxies. Austin also mentioned that he has urged his Israeli counterpart to quickly transition from military operations to diplomatic negotiations, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of UNIFIL forces in Lebanon.
The recent security situation in Lebanon has escalated significantly due to ongoing Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah strongholds. These strikes have resulted in substantial casualties and damage, particularly in central Beirut where the deadliest attacks since the conflict’s resurgence have occurred, killing at least 22 people and injuring 117 others.
International responses have been strong, with condemnation from global leaders and organizations. U.S. President Joe Biden explicitly requested Israel to cease targeting UN peacekeepers, highlighting the severity of the situation. French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside leaders from Spain and Italy, expressed outrage at the targeting of UN peacekeepers and called for a halt to the export of weapons used in these conflicts.
On the ground in Lebanon, the Lebanese government, recognizing the intensifying conflict, has called for an immediate ceasefire and has discussed measures to stabilize the region, emphasizing the deployment of Lebanese military and peacekeepers in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.
