Statement by Foreign Minister Eide on the Israeli attacks in Lebanon
News story | Date: 09/04/2026 | Ministry of Foreign Affairs
‘I condemn the massive Israeli attacks in Lebanon, which have caused immense suffering and destruction. A great many of the attacks took place without warning across the country, whilst children and ordinary people were going about their daily lives. In the space of 24 hours, nearly 200 people were killed and 1,000 injured. Civilians, healthcare workers and hospitals have been hit hard.
All countries, including Israel, have a duty to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure. Yesterday’s attacks demonstrate that Israel is not acting in accordance with its obligations under international humanitarian law. This must stop.
I have expressed my deep sympathy and solidarity with Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi and emphasised that it is completely unacceptable for the long-suffering Lebanese people to be targeted in this way. I also expressed support for the Lebanese government’s decision to disarm Hezbollah.
Israel’s brutal conduct in Lebanon is jeopardising the ceasefire between the United States and Iran. The conflicts in the Middle East are interlinked, and we have made it clear that the ceasefire between the US and Iran must also include Lebanon.
The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah cannot be won by military force. I strongly urge the parties to de-escalate‘.