On May 31, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu claimed that the military had captured the Beaufort Ridge stronghold in southern Lebanon and would further expand operations in the region.
That same day, the UK, Germany, and France weighed in.
UK Foreign Secretary Cooper posted on social media saying the escalation of Israel’s military actions in Lebanon is causing civilian casualties, displacement, destroying infrastructure, and shrinking diplomatic space—and this has to stop. “Hezbollah must halt attacks on Israel and disarm. All parties need to respect the ceasefire and engage in serious negotiations.”
According to reports, Germany’s Foreign Minister Wadeful expressed concern on May 31 about Israel’s expanded ground offensive in southern Lebanon, warning that any further escalation would worsen an already tense situation and lead to more displacement in Lebanon.
That same day, French President Macron posted on social media: “Stability in the Middle East must begin in Lebanon.”
He called on all sides to stop fighting and said, “The current severe escalation in southern Lebanon is completely unjustified. France will continue to support Lebanon’s efforts to restore its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Macron noted he had spoken by phone with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Oman’s Sultan Haitham, UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, and Egyptian President Sisi. “I gave them all the same message: the US and Iran need to agree on a deal as soon as possible. We have to seize this opportunity. The priority is to reach a ceasefire, reopen the Strait of Hormuz immediately without any conditions, and in line with international law. Then, all sides can move on to other issues, aiming for a comprehensive and solid agreement—especially on Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile plans, and regional stability.”
Macron said France is ready to play its part, including co-leading a multinational effort with the UK to ensure safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Reports say France’s foreign ministry issued a statement calling for an emergency UN Security Council meeting on June 1, given the escalating military operations in Lebanon.
