Arab League Council condemns Israeli aggression against Lebanon

The Council of the Arab League at the level of permanent representatives unequivocally condemned the Israeli aggression against Lebanon, demanding its immediate halt and declaring any incursion or occupation of Lebanese territory as a direct violation of Arab national security.

This resolution was issued at the conclusion of an extraordinary session, chaired by Yemen on Thursday, under the title “Solidarity with Lebanon,” to address the serious repercussions of the Israeli aggression.

The Council emphasized its full solidarity with Lebanon in the face of the aggression, which has resulted in the death of thousands of civilians, including children, women, the elderly, and medics, and the severe injury of thousands more.

The destruction of residential units, the devastation of towns and villages, and the burning of vast agricultural areas have displaced over one million people, constituting war crimes and violations of international humanitarian law.

Holding Israel responsible for the aggression, the Council affirmed support for mechanisms to hold it accountable in international forums. It urged Arab countries, friendly nations, and international organisations to expedite financial and in-kind aid, including food and urgent medical supplies, in response to the immense pressure on Lebanon's health, relief, and social sectors. The Council expressed gratitude to the Arab nations already assisting.

The Council also reaffirmed its support for Lebanon’s position and efforts to pressure Israel into halting the aggression and enforcing international legitimacy, particularly Resolution 1701. It called for cooperation between the Lebanese army and the United Nations peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon and urged the UN Security Council to stop Israel’s violations of Lebanese sovereignty and end its occupation of Lebanese territories.

The Council welcomed the statement issued on 25th September by international powers and Arab states calling for an immediate ceasefire. It reiterated support for Lebanon’s efforts to extend its sovereignty over its entire territory, emphasising the need to elect a president and form a government capable of addressing the country’s challenges.

The Secretary-General of the Arab League was tasked with following up on this resolution and coordinating aid efforts with specialised Arab and international organisations. The Council decided to keep its sessions open to monitor the situation and call for a ministerial meeting when necessary.