British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper warmly welcomed US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a ceasefire in Lebanon, describing the agreement as a long-awaited ray of hope for civilians.
In a statement, Cooper said that the Lebanese people had been “dragged over the past six weeks into a war that they did not want,” noting that the clashes between Hezbollah and Israel had led to “catastrophic humanitarian consequences,” embodied in the displacement of more than a million people, in addition to massive destruction and large numbers of civilian casualties, including children. She added that the ceasefire “gives much-needed hope to civilians in both countries, allowing people to return to their homes and begin rebuilding their lives.”
She stressed the importance of this moment representing “an opportunity to pave the way for lasting peace,” calling on both parties to exploit it, stressing the need for both Israel and Hezbollah to respect the ceasefire.
She added that reaching a long-term political settlement, in line with Security Council Resolution No. 1701, is the only way to restore security and stability to the Lebanese and Israeli peoples, stressing that Hezbollah must stop “reckless attacks” and be completely disarmed. It also called on Israel to stop its operations and respect Lebanon’s sovereignty.
In a related context, the British Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa, Hamish Falconer, said in a tweet on the “X” platform that the ceasefire in Lebanon is “welcome news,” and revealed his meeting with the Lebanese leaders and discussing the best ways to achieve peace and security for civilians, by consolidating the agreement and engaging in direct talks with Israel. He stressed his country’s continued support for the Lebanese government in these efforts.
Cooper pointed to the pioneering role played by the United Kingdom in addressing the humanitarian situation in Lebanon, announcing the provision of 30 million pounds in humanitarian aid this year, to provide basic medical supplies, shelter materials and clean water, stressing the continued support of those in need and work to transform the ceasefire into sustainable peace.
The British position comes after the announcement of a ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, following a military escalation that lasted for weeks and resulted in widespread destruction and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. In dealing with the next phase, the international community relies on Resolution No. 1701 issued in 2006, which stipulates the cessation of hostilities and the strengthening of the authority of the Lebanese state south of the Litani River.
With the entry into force of the agreement, international diplomatic movements are increasing to ensure its consolidation, amid warnings of the fragility of the transitional phase and the necessity of a clear political path to prevent renewed clashes.
