Lebanon: Statement by the High Representative on the latest developments

The European Union renews its call for an immediate ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel, and for both parties to commit to the full and symmetrical implementation of the UN Security Council resolution 1701, so as to ensure the safe return of displaced populations on both sides, as part of a broader negotiated settlement

We deplore the many civilian casualties in Lebanon, the destruction of civilian infrastructure with related long-term implications, and the high number of internally displaced persons on both sides, and once again urge the respect of International Humanitarian Law in all circumstances. Arms should now be silenced and the voice of diplomacy should speak and be heard by all.

Hezbollah's firing of rockets and other projectiles into Israeli territory since 8^th October has to stop. The sovereignty of both Israel and Lebanon has to be guaranteed. Any further military intervention would dramatically aggravate the situation. The EU is concerned about the risks of further escalation of the conflict across the region, and urges all parties in the region to show restraint in the interest of de-escalation.

The sheer magnitude of the rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situation calls for urgent international assistance: the EU is already fully mobilised and has just announced additional assistance on 29 September on top of previous commitments. Additional EU support is being considered to address increasing humanitarian needs.

Consular coordination between EU Member States and with other associated countries is being exercised in real time to ensure our preparedness for any emergency situation.

More than ever, the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) are called to play a critical role as guarantor of both domestic and regional stability. The EU has adopted a new assistance measure to empower the LAF on 23 September and is ready to increase its support in view of the evolving situation. The EU calls on all partners of Lebanon to contribute to strengthening the LAF and is ready to facilitate international coordination of such efforts as appropriate.

In the current situation of emergency, the UN mission in Lebanon (UNIFIL) also assumes a fundamental stabilisation role. The safety and security of UN peacekeepers is paramount; we call on all parties to protect and support the important mission of UNIFIL. The EU and its Member states are ready to build on their steady support to UNIFIL to facilitate the accomplishment of its mission, including strengthening its role in the framework of UNSC resolutions.

At this hour of need, all Lebanese leaders should now put national interests first and work together to restore the functioning of Lebanon's state institutions, notably by electing a President and forming a full-fledged government. The EU stands ready to assist Lebanon in the consolidation of its state institutions and in undertaking the steps needed for its recovery.