UN Security Council Urges De-Escalation Amidst Escalating Violence in Lebanon
The UN Security Council convened on Wednesday to address the escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly the massive air attacks launched by Israel on Lebanon. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that Lebanon is "on the brink of the abyss," emphasizing the urgent need for a diplomatic ceasefire to prevent the situation from deteriorating into a large-scale regional war. Guterres highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, stating that the Lebanese people require at least $70 million to address the needs of the increasing number of displaced persons due to the violence.
Rising Casualties and Destruction
Since the onset of the Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon last Monday, more than 600 people have been killed, including many civilians, with thousands more injured. The airstrikes have resulted in significant destruction of residential areas and critical infrastructure. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed concern that the conflict could reach a "point of no return," calling for a temporary ceasefire of 21 days to facilitate negotiations between Israel and Hezbollah. Meanwhile, Algeria's Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf condemned the Israeli actions as heinous aggression and called for accountability for those responsible.
Regional Tensions and International Responses
The situation remains tense, with reports of missile launches from Lebanon towards Israel, which were intercepted by Israeli defense systems. The UN Security Council is expected to meet urgently to discuss the crisis further, as world leaders continue to call for de-escalation. The international community remains on high alert, fearing that continued hostilities could lead to a comprehensive war in the Middle East, echoing the devastating conflicts of the past.
