EU demands Israel halt Lebanon offensive as civilian toll mounts

2026-03-18 - 22:39

The European Union issued an urgent call Wednesday for Israel to cease its military operations in Lebanon, warning that the escalating offensive is causing devastating humanitarian suffering and risks triggering a prolonged conflict. The statement from the European External Action Service (EEAS) reflects growing international alarm as the violence spreads beyond Iran. Humanitarian catastrophe unfolding "The EU is deeply concerned about the ongoing Israeli offensive in Lebanon which already has devastating humanitarian consequences and risks triggering a prolonged conflict. Israel should cease its operations in Lebanon," the EEAS declared. Describing the humanitarian situation as "already dramatic," the statement emphasized that civilians are paying the "highest price" as fighting intensifies. According to Lebanese authorities, at least 968 people have been killed and 2,432 injured in Israeli strikes across Lebanon since March 2, when cross-border exchanges with Hezbollah dramatically escalated. Dual condemnation The EU statement also directed criticism at Hezbollah, condemning its "decision to plunge Lebanon into this war, its refusal to hand over arms and its continuation of indiscriminate attacks against Israel." The bloc stressed that "attacks on civilians, civilian infrastructure, healthcare personnel and facilities, as well as UNIFIL (peacekeepers) are unjustified and unacceptable and should stop immediately." The balanced criticism reflects the EU's position that both sides bear responsibility for the current escalation. Resolution 1701 emphasized Brussels welcomed Lebanese authorities' call for direct negotiations with Israel, stressing that dialogue between the two parties is essential. "We reiterate our call for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 by all sides and support the Lebanese government's efforts to disarm Hezbollah and end its military activities," the statement added. The 2006 resolution was designed to stabilize the border region and establish a weapons-free zone in southern Lebanon. The current escalation follows the broader US-Israeli offensive against Iran that began Feb. 28, which has killed approximately 1,300 people including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Tehran retaliating against US assets across the region.