Abu Dhabi: UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has issued a statement expressing concern over the escalations in Lebanon. MoFA has emphasized its commitment to the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The statement mentioned that, “The UAE reaffirmed its unwavering position towards the unity of Lebanon, national sovereignty, and territorial integrity, emphasizing the country’s steadfast support for the people of Lebanon during this challenging period. In this regard, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE President, has directed the delivery of an urgent $100mn relief package to the people of Lebanon.”
MoFA statement comes as the Israeli military commenced a ‘limited’ ground invasion targeting Hezbollah sites.
This escalation follows a series of Israeli airstrikes over the past two weeks and the recent assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. The military actions, including the detonation of booby-trapped Hezbollah devices, mark a severe intensification of hostilities in the region.
MoFA affirmed the necessity of concerted international endeavors to halt the escalation and prevent further loss of life. The Ministry stressed the importance of providing full protection to civilians according to international law and treaties.
Despite widespread international appeals for de-escalation, Israel has reaffirmed its commitment to continue its military operations against Hezbollah, recently designating certain areas along its border with Lebanon as a military zone.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant indicated that the conflict is far from over, especially following the significant strike that resulted in the death of their leader, which dealt a substantial blow to the group.
The Israeli military has stated that ground raids, supported by airstrikes and artillery, are targeting Hezbollah positions in villages near the border, claiming these locations pose an ‘immediate threat’ to communities in Northern Israel.