The Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, has issued a warning amidst the escalating tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.
He emphasized that a single wrong move could have catastrophic consequences not only for the region but also beyond.
Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York, Guterres expressed his concerns about the ongoing exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel across the Blue Line. He highlighted the need to prevent further escalation and emphasized that the risk of the conflict in the Middle East expanding is a genuine threat that must be averted.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations emphasised that numerous individuals have lost their lives and been displaced from their homes and sources of income on both sides of the Blue Line.
On Thursday, the leader of Hezbollah issued a caution to Israel following reports that the Israeli military has sanctioned plans for an attack on southern Lebanon.
Over the past eight months, Hezbollah has engaged in a conflict with Israel in support of their Palestinian ally, Hamas, in Gaza.
Guterres stated that it is imperative for Lebanon not to suffer the same fate as Gaza, emphasising the importance of preventing further escalation.
He mentioned the presence of UN peacekeepers on the ground, working to reduce tensions and avoid any miscalculations.
The Secretary-General stressed that immediate de-escalation is not only feasible but necessary, emphasising that a military solution is not the answer.
He also highlighted the significance of safeguarding civilians, ensuring the protection of children, journalists, and medical personnel, and facilitating the return of displaced individuals to their homes.
Guterres expressed the UN’s support for diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the violence, restoring stability, and preventing further human suffering in the region.
