On May 31 local time, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that the Israeli army had captured the Bofort Ridge stronghold located in southern Lebanon, and would further expand its military operations within Lebanese territory.
On that day, Britain, Germany, and France responded to this situation.
On May 31 local time, British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Cooper posted a statement on social media, stating that Israels military actions in Lebanon have caused civilian casualties and displacement, as well as the destruction of infrastructure and the reduction of diplomatic opportunities. Such actions must come to an end. Hamas must cease attacks against Israel and disarm. All parties must respect the ceasefire agreement and engage sincerely in negotiations.
According to Middle East Eye, regarding Israels expansion of its ground attacks in southern Lebanon, German Foreign Minister Waderfeld expressed concerns on May 31. He warned that any further escalation would exacerbate the already tense situation and lead to displacement of civilians in Lebanon.
On that day, French President Emmanuel Macron posted on social media saying, The stability of the Middle East should begin with Lebanon.
He called on all parties to cease the fighting. He stated, There is no reason for the severe escalation of the situation in southern Lebanon at this time. France will continue to support Lebanons efforts to restore national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Macron said that he had telephone conversations with Saudi Arabias Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Omans Sultan Hamid, the UAEs President Mohammed bin Zayed, and Egypts President Sisi. I conveyed the same message to all of them: The United States and Iran must reach an agreement as soon as possible. We must seize this opportunity. The top priority is to reach a ceasefire agreement, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz immediately, without any conditions, and in accordance with international law. After that, all parties should continue to discuss other issues and reach a comprehensive and stable agreement, especially regarding Irans nuclear program, its ballistic missile program, and regional stability.
Macron stated that France is ready to play its role at any time, including participating in a multinational initiative led by the UK to ensure the safety of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to Reuters, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a statement that, given the escalating military actions in Lebanon, France called on the United Nations Security Council to hold an emergency meeting on June 1st, local time.
