US, France, and Allies Advocate for 21-Day Ceasefire Along Israel-Lebanon Border

By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON – The United States, France, and several allied nations have called for an immediate 21-day ceasefire along the Israel-Lebanon border while also advocating for a ceasefire in Gaza, according to a joint statement from these countries released by the White House on Wednesday.

"The situation between Lebanon and Israel since October 8, 2023, is intolerable and poses an unacceptable risk of further regional escalation," the joint statement noted. It called for the ceasefire to facilitate diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a lasting settlement.

This statement was issued by the U.S., France, the European Union, Germany, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and other partner nations. They urged the governments of Israel and Lebanon to accept the temporary ceasefire without delay.

A senior U.S. official later informed reporters that discussions regarding this ceasefire had been ongoing for some time, and there was hope to transform these discussions into a wider agreement during the proposed 21-day period. The official expressed optimism that creating diplomatic space in Lebanon could also pave the way for a ceasefire in Gaza, which has remained elusive for many months.

The conflict in Gaza, sparked by a devastating attack on October 7 by Hamas militants, has resulted in thousands of deaths, a humanitarian crisis, mass displacement, and allegations of genocide against Israel, which it has consistently denied.

The clashes between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon have raised concerns about a potential regional conflict. Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon intensified recently, leading to significant casualties, particularly among Hezbollah leaders and militants. Meanwhile, Hezbollah has responded by launching rockets into Israel, resulting in numerous fatalities on both sides.