UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for urgent efforts to de-escalate the growing conflict in Lebanon, amid rising concerns of a wider regional war in the Middle East as Israeli operations against Hezbollah intensify.
Guterres, through his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, emphasized the importance of preventing a full-scale war in Lebanon “at all costs” and urged for an immediate ceasefire.
He also stressed the need to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning that further escalation could have devastating consequences for the region.
This comes as tensions in the Middle East have escalated significantly. Israel has been conducting intensified military operations targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon, fueling fears of a broader conflict that could engulf neighboring countries.
The situation has raised alarms globally, as world leaders attempt to mediate and prevent a deeper crisis.
Lebanon has long been vulnerable to conflict, with its history of civil wars and regional power struggles, often involving Israel, Hezbollah, and external actors such as Iran and Syria.
The possibility of a renewed conflict could exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in the country, which is currently grappling with economic collapse and political instability.
The UN’s call for restraint and diplomacy comes at a critical moment, as the international community seeks to mitigate the threat of a larger war in the region.
Guterres’ plea echoes a widespread fear that the fragile peace in Lebanon could shatter, further destabilizing the Middle East.
Given the volatile nature of the region and the global implications of a conflict involving major regional powers, the UN’s focus on de-escalation remains a priority for maintaining peace and security.
