The foreign ministers of Germany, France and the UK denounced the new Lebanon invasion by Israel—not in principle, but because of the international outrage over the civilian casualties. The duplicity of the Europeans was illustrated by Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who stressed Israel’s right to defend against the Hezbollah, however voicing his “concern” over the loss of civilian lives.
Wadephul’s British counterpart, Yvette Cooper, also called for an end to Israeli attacks in Lebanon. On the online platform X she wrote that the escalation had killed and displaced civilians, destroyed infrastructure, and limited the scope for diplomacy. She also called on the Hezbollah militia to cease its attacks on Israel and disarm. All sides must respect the ceasefire and engage in serious negotiations.
Sharper criticism of Israel’s actions came from France, which requested an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, which took place late today. “Nothing justifies the current massive escalation in southern Lebanon,” said French President Emmanuel Macron. Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot told the television station BFMTV that France recognized Israel’s right to defend itself against Hezbollah attacks, but that nothing could justify the prolongation of Israeli military operations in Lebanon and the occupation of areas deeper and deeper into Lebanese territory.
