Canada, France, Germany, UK warn against major Israeli ground offensive in Lebanon

IDF troops in southern Lebanon, in a handout photo issued by the military on March 16, 2026. (Israel Defense Forces)
IDF troops in southern Lebanon, in a handout photo issued by the military on March 16, 2026. (Israel Defense Forces)

A “significant Israeli ground offensive” in Lebanon must be averted since it could have devastating humanitarian consequences, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Britain say in a joint statement.

“A significant Israeli ground offensive would have devastating humanitarian consequences and could lead to a protracted conflict,” says the statement by Canada, France, Britain, Germany and Italy.

“It must be averted. The humanitarian situation in Lebanon, including ongoing mass displacement, is already deeply alarming.”

The statement says the countries support efforts by the Lebanese government to disarm Iran-backed Hezbollah.

“We are gravely concerned by the escalating violence in Lebanon and call for meaningful engagement by Israeli and Lebanese representatives to negotiate a sustainable political solution,” the countries say. “We strongly support initiatives to facilitate talks and urge for immediate de-escalation.”

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