The Arab League issued a formal condemnation on Sunday regarding Israel’s escalating military operations in Lebanon. According to the outlet La Tercera, the regional organization characterized the Israeli actions as a "brutal aggression" and a "flagrant violation of Lebanese sovereignty."
Ahmed Abul Gheit, secretary general of the Arab League, took to social media to denounce the ongoing invasion. He cited the destruction of villages and archaeological sites in southern Lebanon, as well as the widespread displacement of civilians, as severe breaches of both international law and international humanitarian law.
"Ahmed Abul Gheit, secretary general of the League of Arab States, has condemned enérgetically the brutal Israeli aggression against Lebanon, the continuous invasion of Lebanese territory, the destruction of villages and archaeological sites in southern Lebanon, and the attacks and displacement of civilians," the official statement read.
Gamal Roshdi, the spokesperson for the league, emphasized the urgency of the situation. He stated that the current offensive poses a significant threat to regional stability and security. The organization has reaffirmed its support for the Lebanese government's efforts to reassert control over its territory and protect its citizens.
Pressure on the UN Security Council
The Arab League is now calling on the United Nations Security Council to intervene. The organization wants the Council to hold Israel accountable and force an immediate ceasefire. The league specifically pointed to the need for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which was originally adopted in 2006 to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
Resolution 1701 mandates a permanent truce, the creation of a buffer zone, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon to allow for the deployment of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The league argues that this framework remains the only viable path to restoring order.
This diplomatic push follows a series of significant military developments on the ground. Israeli forces recently captured the strategic Beaufort Castle, a site with deep historical significance dating back to the 1982 Lebanon War.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled an expansion of the conflict. "My orders are now to consolidate and extend our control over the areas that were under Hezbollah's domain," Netanyahu declared. According to La Tercera, Israeli military evacuation orders suggest that the next phase of the advance may reach the Zahrani River, located 15 kilometers north of the Litani River.
