UN Chief Urges Israel and Hezbollah to Halt Fighting During Lebanon Visit
BEIRUT – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Friday urged Israel and the Lebanese group Hezbollah to stop the ongoing hostilities and work toward an agreement that can restore stability in Lebanon.
Call for Ceasefire
During an official visit to Beirut, Guterres expressed hope that his next trip to Lebanon would take place in a time of peace. He also emphasized that the Lebanese state should remain the only authority in the country.
He made the remarks at a joint news conference following a meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, according to reports from an Anadolu Agency correspondent.
Earlier, after arriving in Beirut, Guterres wrote on social media that the Lebanese people “did not choose this war” and had instead been drawn into the conflict.
Push for Regional Peace
Moreover, the UN chief pledged to continue diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a peaceful future for Lebanon and the wider region. He stressed that the international community must work together to reduce tensions and protect civilians.
Upon arrival, Guterres received a welcome from Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert, according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.
In addition, the UN leader plans to hold meetings with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Lebanese Army Commander Rudolph Haykal. Later, he will launch an urgent humanitarian appeal at government headquarters in Beirut. Diplomats from donor countries and representatives of international organizations will attend the conference.
Rising Regional Tensions
Guterres’ visit comes as cross-border exchanges between Hezbollah and Israel continue to intensify. Israeli forces expanded operations in Lebanon on March 2, which further escalated tensions across the region.
Meanwhile, the broader Middle East conflict has worsened since Israel and the United States launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb. 28. According to reports, more than 1,300 people have died in the violence, including Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran carried out drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and several Gulf countries that host U.S. military bases.
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