As Israel's airstrikes in Lebanon continue to escalate, world leaders have been quick to respond to the devastating attacks that have resulted in the deaths of over 500 people and left thousands wounded.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi strongly condemned Israel's actions, stating that they violate basic norms of the international order. Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, issued a warning to Israel, emphasizing the potential dangerous consequences of the strikes on Lebanon.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for an immediate halt to the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, urging both parties to cease hostilities as world leaders prepared to convene at the UN General Assembly.
The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, expressed alarm at the rising death toll in Lebanon and called on the UN Security Council to intervene. Borrell emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
President Joe Biden of the United States assured ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation, with his team maintaining constant communication with relevant counterparts. Biden emphasized the importance of ensuring the safe return of affected individuals to their homes.
Qatar's foreign ministry condemned the airstrikes, warning of the potential for increased regional tensions and their far-reaching impact. Egypt and Jordan both expressed solidarity with Lebanon, with Egypt rejecting any violations of Lebanon's sovereignty and territories, and Jordan calling for UN intervention to prevent further escalation towards a comprehensive regional war.
