17 countries call for Lebanon's involvement in regional de-escalation efforts

CAIRO – 14 April 2026: Seventeen countries, including Britain and France, have issued a joint statement affirming the critical importance of involving Lebanon in international de-escalation efforts amid rising regional tensions.

The statement reflects a growing international concern regarding the widening scope of the conflict and its potential to destabilize the broader Middle East.

The signatory nations warned that continued military operations within Lebanon pose a direct threat to regional peace initiatives, emphasizing that instability in Lebanon could undermine any progress made toward reducing tensions elsewhere.

Furthermore, they stressed the necessity of achieving a lasting political solution that guarantees the country's long-term security and sovereignty.

The statement also welcomed President Joseph Aoun's initiative calling for direct dialogue with Israel, describing the move as a vital step toward breaking the current political deadlock.

 It further noted the Israeli side's openness to the proposal, suggesting that these developments could pave the way for a new and constructive diplomatic path.