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BRUSSELS — The European Union (EU) has expressed strong approval of the newly announced ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, hailing it as a significant step toward peace.
In a statement released on Thursday, the EU praised the mediation efforts of France and the United States, which led to the agreement following months of calls by the EU and its Member States for a cessation of hostilities.
“This is a significant achievement, which the EU and its Member States have been repeatedly calling for throughout this year,” said Peter Stano, the EU’s lead spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.
The EU stressed the importance of ensuring the ceasefire holds, emphasizing that both Israel and Lebanon must commit to upholding it for the sake of regional stability and the safety of civilians on both sides. Stano added that it is now critical for both nations to allow internally displaced persons to return to their homes and restore peace along the border.
“First and foremost, this requires the commitment of both sides,” Stano noted.
“The sovereignty of both Lebanon and Israel must be fully respected, and all cross-border attacks must stop.”
The EU called on regional and international stakeholders to engage actively in supporting the ceasefire, aiming for it to become a permanent contribution to regional peace.
To further assist the peace process, the EU pledged its commitment to mobilizing a wide range of instruments, including the European Peace Facility. These resources will be used to support the Lebanese Armed Forces and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to ensure the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
In addition to peacekeeping efforts, the EU has committed to humanitarian aid, post-conflict recovery, and reconstruction, particularly in Lebanon where countless citizens have been displaced by the ongoing conflict.
“The EU is especially determined to support Lebanon’s sovereignty and state-building efforts,” Stano affirmed.
The EU also urged Lebanese political leaders to put aside their differences and take swift action to end the country’s protracted political and economic crisis. With the presidency vacant for over two years, the EU is calling for the prompt election of a new President, which it views as a vital step toward rebuilding a strong and sovereign Lebanese state.
“This is an opportunity for Lebanese leaders to unite and shape a common, peaceful, and prosperous future for all,” Stano concluded.
