UK PM Keir Starmer Welcomes Israel-Hezbollah Ceasefire, Urges Lasting Peace

London [UK], November 27: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has welcomed the recently brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, expressing hope for a sustainable resolution to the prolonged conflict.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Starmer described the ceasefire as "long overdue" and noted that it offers a measure of relief to civilians in Lebanon and Northern Israel who have endured months of devastating conflict.

Starmer’s statement emphasized the need to transform the ceasefire into a "lasting political solution in Lebanon" based on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, enabling displaced civilians to return to their homes and fostering community rebuilding efforts on both sides of the border.

He reiterated the UK's commitment to collaborating with allies to break the cycle of violence and pursue sustainable peace in the Middle East.

Starmer also brought attention to the dire situation in Gaza, calling for immediate progress on a ceasefire deal, the release of all hostages, and unrestricted access to humanitarian aid.

The UK Prime Minister’s remarks came shortly after Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Joe Biden announced the ceasefire deal on Tuesday (local time).

Netanyahu, while affirming the agreement, warned that its longevity hinges on Hezbollah’s actions. "With the United States' full understanding, we maintain full freedom of military action. If Hezbollah violates the agreement and tries to arm itself, we will attack. If it tries to rebuild terrorist infrastructure near the border, we will attack. If it launches a rocket, if it digs a tunnel, if it brings in a truck carrying rockets, we will attack," he said.

Background on the Conflict

The prolonged conflict between Israel and Lebanon began on October 8 last year, when Hezbollah launched attacks on Israeli-controlled territory in solidarity with Hamas and Palestinians in Gaza. This incident ignited a series of retaliatory strikes that escalated into a major Israeli military offensive in mid-September.

The conflict has resulted in a ground invasion by Israel, the deaths of several Hezbollah leaders, including one of its founders, Hassan Nasrallah, and thousands of injuries.