Beirut: Spain condemned Israel's strikes on Lebanon, particularly in densely populated areas of Beirut, warning the attacks have caused numerous civilian casualties and risk further escalating the conflict.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Spanish Foreign Ministry released a statement late Thursday expressing strong disapproval of the intense attacks launched by Israel against Lebanon, especially targeting its capital, Beirut. The statement highlighted the numerous casualties among the civilian population due to these strikes.
The Spanish government voiced its deep concern over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Lebanon. It also condemned Hezbollah's attacks against Israel, warning that such actions could lead to a new cycle of violence and suffering. Spain reiterated its support for Lebanese authorities in their efforts to centralize the use of force and urged all parties involved to avoid actions that could worsen the conflict.
Furthermore, the Spanish government strongly criticized the Israeli army's order for civilians to evacuate areas south of the Zahrani River. Madrid described the directive as "completely disproportionate and contrary to international law," emphasizing the importance of respecting Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity and preventing further harm to civilians.
In response to the worsening humanitarian situation, Spain announced a financial aid package of £9 million ($10.3 million) to support the Lebanese population and address the growing refugee crisis. The government also called on all parties to ensure the safety and security of UN peacekeepers deployed in the region.
The conflict escalated on March 2 when the Iran-allied group began attacking Israeli military sites following repeated Israeli attacks on Lebanon and the killing of Iran's then-Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US-Israeli strike. Israel retaliated with a military campaign on Lebanon, conducting airstrikes on the southern suburbs of Beirut and other regions, and launched a limited ground incursion in southern Lebanon on March 3.
Lebanon's Health Minister Rakan Nasser El Din reported that the attacks have resulted in 687 deaths, including 98 children, and 1,774 injuries.