In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israeli forces launched a series of airstrikes in southern Lebanon on Wednesday, drawing a swift call from the British government for all parties to step back from the brink of full-scale conflict. The strikes, which targeted what the Israel Defense Forces described as 'Hezbollah infrastructure,' have reignited fears of a broader war that could engulf the volatile Middle East.
British Foreign Secretary David Lammy issued an urgent statement condemning the 'reckless' actions and urging 'immediate de-escalation by all sides.' He stressed that the UK is in close contact with both Israeli and Lebanese authorities, as well as key international partners, to prevent a further spiral of violence. 'The only path to lasting security is through diplomacy, not retaliation,' Lammy said.
The airstrikes come amid heightened alert along the Blue Line, the UN-demarcated border between Israel and Lebanon, where Hezbollah and Israeli forces have exchanged fire sporadically since the Gaza war began. Analysts warn that the situation could rapidly deteriorate, drawing in regional powers and complicating ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza.
Read more on this developing story.
