The European Union has urged Lebanon and Israel to work towards reducing tensions along their shared border, warning that the situation remains fragile since the beginning of the year.
Josep Borrell, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, expressed concern over the growing conflict in the region during a press conference in Beirut alongside Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib.
Borrell emphasized that tensions have continued to escalate since his last visit to the region in January, with growing fears that the ongoing war in Gaza could spill over into Lebanon, leading to increased humanitarian suffering.
He called for immediate efforts to de-escalate the military situation, urging all parties involved to take steps toward peaceful negotiations.
The EU official also stressed the importance of fully implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah.
He suggested that this resolution could serve as a foundation for a comprehensive settlement, including the demarcation of land borders and the reconstruction of border regions.
Borrell reiterated the EU’s commitment to supporting the Lebanese people as they navigate the multiple challenges they face. However, he acknowledged that the EU’s efforts, while significant, cannot resolve the crisis alone.
Lebanese Foreign Minister Bou Habib reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to the full and balanced implementation of Resolution 1701, highlighting the importance of Borrell’s visit and the message of support it represents for Lebanon.
Prime Minister Najib Mikati also echoed this sentiment, calling for increased international pressure to halt ongoing Israeli aggression.
Meanwhile, Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri emphasized that Lebanon does not seek war but remains fully capable of defending itself if necessary. He praised Borrell’s stance on the situation in Gaza and Lebanon, further highlighting Lebanon’s desire for peace in the region.
