NEW YORK: The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has called for an immediate halt to fighting and bombardment in Lebanon, stressing that diplomacy is the only way to resolve the conflict.
Speaking to the media in Beirut, Guterres said the crisis in Lebanon cannot be solved through military means and must instead be addressed through diplomatic efforts and negotiations. He expressed deep sadness over the deteriorating situation in the country.
The UN chief warned that southern Lebanon is on the brink of devastation. He also said that evacuation orders in southern Beirut have raised fears of widespread destruction in the area.
Guterres emphasized that the people of Lebanon did not choose this war but have been forced into it. He reiterated that the protection and respect of civilians must be ensured at all times. He also stressed the importance of respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty and its borders while urging an immediate ceasefire.
The appeal comes as attacks by Israel in Lebanon have intensified, leading to heavy civilian casualties and forcing many residents to flee their homes.
In one tragic incident in the southern Lebanese town of Al‑Numairiyah, an Israeli airstrike reportedly wiped out three generations of the same family within moments. According to reports, more than 800 Lebanese civilians have been killed so far in the ongoing attacks.
The United Nations has renewed its call for urgent diplomatic action to prevent further escalation and to protect civilian lives.
