Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon

News story | Date: 27/11/2024 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs

I welcome the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. This is an important first step reached with support from the United States and France. I urge all parties to respect the agreement and to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

The hostilities have caused immense death, human suffering and destruction. Even last night, there were intense attacks on Beirut and southern Lebanon. The humanitarian situation in Lebanon is extremely challenging, with over 1.2 million people displaced from their homes. I hope this agreement will make it possible for the displaced in both Lebanon and Israel to return to their homes.

The conflicts in the Middle East are interconnected. It is now crucial to initiate meaningful negotiations for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, to ensure that the people of Gaza will receive lifesaving humanitarian aid, and to secure the release of the hostages.