Leaders Urge End to Fighting in Gaza and Lebanon
Paphos: Leaders from nine European countries around the Mediterranean Sea gathered at a summit in Cyprus on Friday to call for an end to fighting in Gaza and Lebanon. The leaders issued a joint statement condemning the Israeli firing on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, which resulted in injuries to several troops.
Condemnation of Israeli Firing
French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni characterized the Israeli firing as "unacceptable." This stance was echoed by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, who demanded an "end to all violence" against the peacekeepers in Lebanon. The three countries, which have around 2,000 troops in the UNIFIL mission, said that the attacks violate Security Council Resolution 1701, which only allows the UN and Lebanon’s army to be present in southernmost Lebanon.
Ceasefire Indispensable
Macron emphasized that a ceasefire is crucial for both Gaza and Lebanon, while Italian Prime Minister Meloni said that "attacks on peacekeepers are not acceptable." The leaders also discussed getting more aid into Gaza, with Jordan presenting a new plan and France committing to contribute to it.
Background and Context
Israeli forces have escalated operations against Iran-backed Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon since late September, as the war against Hezbollah’s ally, Hamas, continues in the Gaza Strip. The military has justified its actions, saying it targeted a "threat" and hit a UNIFIL post. However, UNIFIL has reported that Israeli tank fire led to the injury of two peacekeepers on Thursday, with two more being hurt in "explosions" near an observation tower the following day.
Consequences of the Conflict
The conflict has significant consequences for the region. Leaders from the nine countries, known as the MED9 group, meet regularly to address common challenges and share their perspectives. The group also includes Portugal, Greece, Malta, Slovenia, and Croatia, as well as the King of Jordan, Abdullah II.
Call for Ceasefire and Resolution
The leaders’ statement demanded that the attacks on UN peacekeepers cease immediately and that an "immediate ceasefire" be implemented. They also called for a resumption of talks to resolve the conflict. In a statement, they expressed "outrage" at the peacekeeper injuries and said the "attacks" violate Security Council Resolution 1701.
Conclusion
The leaders of the nine European countries have called for an end to the fighting in Gaza and Lebanon, emphasizing the importance of a ceasefire and a resumption of talks. The international community must come together to address the complex issues plaguing the region and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What did the leaders from nine European countries agree to?
A: They called for an end to fighting in Gaza and Lebanon, and a resumption of talks.
Q: What did the leaders condemn?
A: They condemned Israeli firing on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, which resulted in injuries to several troops.
Q: What is the significance of the MED9 group?
A: The MED9 group is a gathering of leaders from nine European countries around the Mediterranean Sea, which includes Portugal, Greece, Malta, Slovenia, Croatia, Cyprus, and the King of Jordan, Abdullah II. They meet regularly to address common challenges and share their perspectives.