Brussels: The EU on Monday urged Israel to halt its military escalation in Lebanon and respect the country’s sovereignty, while reaffirming support for diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

According to Anadolu Agency, European Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni told a media briefing, “We call on Israel to stop its military escalation in Lebanon and to respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.” He also called for continued diplomatic engagement led by the US and other international partners to achieve a negotiated path toward long-term stability.

El Anouni further stated that the people of Lebanon have already endured immense hardship and emphasized that they did not choose this war. He stressed that the conflict is not theirs, and both Lebanon and Israel have the right to live in peace, security, and dignity, free from the threat of renewed conflict.

The EU stands in solidarity with the Lebanese people and will continue providing support and emergency assistance to help authorities respond to the crisis, El Anouni added. On security, he mentioned that the bloc is considering additional measures to support stability in Lebanon, including a possible new mission aimed at strengthening state authority.

While he declined to provide further details, El Anouni stressed that the EU’s commitment to Lebanon’s security and stability “remains unwavering.” The situation escalated when Israel’s latest assault on Lebanon began in March, soon after Hezbollah’s retaliation to the US-Israeli war on Iran. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently ordered troops to expand the incursion, despite a US-mediated ceasefire in place.