Countries have urged for de-escalation as Lebanon braces for an Israeli response to a recent strike on the occupied Golan Heights, which killed 12 children and has been attributed to Hezbollah. This incident has exacerbated fears of a broader conflict in a region already tense due to Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza, which has persisted for over nine months.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced on Monday that he has engaged in discussions with his Israeli and Lebanese counterparts, Israel Katz and Bou Habib, about preventing a new war in the Middle East. “Breaking the spiral of violence is possible,” Tajani stated on social media platform X, emphasizing Italy’s commitment to peace and stability, including its participation in the United Nations’ UNIFIL contingent.
Britain also expressed support for de-escalation, welcoming the Lebanese government’s call for a cessation of all violence. British Foreign Minister David Lammy shared on X that he had spoken with Lebanon’s Prime Minister Najib Mikati to convey his concerns over the escalating tensions and to endorse Lebanon’s appeal for calm. “We both agreed that widening of conflict in the region is in nobody’s interest,” Lammy wrote.
The German government has similarly called on all parties involved in the Middle East conflict, particularly Iran, to avoid escalation. A spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry indicated that Berlin believes the deadly attack on a football field in the Golan Heights was carried out by Hezbollah, a group backed by Iran. The spokesperson also highlighted recent destabilizing actions by the Yemen-based Houthi militia, also supported by Iran.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has engaged in discussions with several key figures, including her Lebanese counterpart, to mitigate the situation and prevent further escalation. Additionally, the German government has advised its citizens in Lebanon, estimated to number around 1,300, to leave the country while it is still feasible. “We are very concerned about the situation of the Germans on the ground and are preparing what needs to be prepared,” the spokesperson added.
As international diplomatic efforts continue, the region remains on high alert, with many hoping that dialogue and restraint will prevent a further escalation of violence.
