Lebanon

In a statement to the House of Commons, the Foreign Secretary addressed the escalating tensions on the Israeli-Lebanese border. The minister condemned the recent rocket attacks by Hezbollah into northern Israel, which have tragically killed at least 12 civilians, including a 10-year-old child. The government has expressed its deepest sympathies to the families and the Jewish community affected by this "horrific attack." The Foreign Secretary emphasized that the government unequivocally condemns Hezbollah's actions and calls for the group to cease its rocket strikes, which have already resulted in the deaths of more than 40 people, including 24 civilians, in northern Israel and the Golan Heights. Tens of thousands of Israelis have also been displaced from the area, while in Lebanon, over 100 civilians have died and nearly 100,000 have been displaced. The minister stated that the government supports Israel's right to defend itself in line with international humanitarian law, as the country faces threats from those who seek its "annihilation." However, the government is urging restraint, as a widening of the conflict would be in nobody's interest and could have "catastrophic" consequences. The Foreign Secretary highlighted the government's efforts to work with the United Nations, the United States, France, and other partners to encourage de-escalation and find a diplomatic solution based on UN Security Council resolution 1701. This resolution calls for the disarmament of all armed groups in Lebanon, the withdrawal of foreign forces, and the deployment of only UN and Lebanese government troops near the border with Israel. Regarding the situation in Gaza, the minister condemned the ongoing fighting and the "desperate conditions" faced by civilians, including the recent attacks on the Khadija schools that resulted in civilian casualties and injured children. The government has announced new funding for field hospitals run by UK-Med, which has treated over 60,000 Gazans since the conflict began, and has also restored funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency. The Foreign Secretary emphasized the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages, and the provision of much-needed aid to Gaza. The government believes that a ceasefire would not only alleviate the suffering in Gaza but also help reduce tensions across the region, including in Lebanon, and offer hope for renewed peace processes between Israel and the Palestinians. Lastly, the minister advised all British nationals in Lebanon to leave the country immediately, as the situation could deteriorate rapidly, and the government cannot guarantee their immediate evacuation if the conflict escalates further.