UN Secretary-General Warns Lebanon on Brink of War Amid Ongoing Crises
In a stark warning, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has declared that Lebanon is on the verge of all-out war due to escalating tensions resulting from Israeli military actions. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on October 8, Guterres emphasized the urgent need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations in the region. His statements come amid a backdrop of increased violence in Gaza and Lebanon, which he described as a year filled with multiple crises.
Guterres highlighted the catastrophic situation in Gaza, which has been marked by relentless attacks and significant civilian casualties. He noted that since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, over 2,000 people have lost their lives in Israeli strikes, with many more injured and displaced. The humanitarian situation has deteriorated rapidly, with essential services like electricity being cut off and hospitals evacuated due to ongoing hostilities.
The Secretary-General pointed to the alarming potential for the conflict to spread, labeling the Middle East as a powder keg where various factions are poised to ignite further violence. He also raised concerns about Israel's recent military strategies, including unprecedented air strikes that have targeted civilian areas in Lebanon, including the capital, Beirut. Guterres reiterated the necessity of a two-state solution, advocating for peace and stability for all peoples in the region.
As tensions rise, Hezbollah has retaliated against Israeli military positions, launching missiles and drones in response to ongoing attacks. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for escalation posing a significant threat not only to Lebanon but to regional stability as a whole.
