UN Secretary‑General condemns Israeli strikes in Lebanon, calls for ceasefire

International

INTERNATIONAL, 9 April 2026 (NPA) — United Nations Secretary‑General António Guterres has unequivocally condemned the large‑scale Israeli strikes across Lebanon on 8 April, which left hundreds of civilians dead or injured, including children, and caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure. He expressed deep alarm at the mounting toll on civilians.

In a press statement issued on 8 April, Guterres extended his condolences to the Government and people of Lebanon and wished the injured a swift recovery.

He warned that, with the announcement of a ceasefire between Iran and the United States, continued military activity in Lebanon poses a grave risk to the truce and to efforts towards a lasting and comprehensive peace in the region. The Secretary‑General reiterated his call for all parties to immediately cease hostilities.

Guterres stressed that international law, including international humanitarian law, must be respected at all times. Civilians and civilian objects must be protected, and attacks directed against them are unacceptable.

“There is no military solution to the conflict,” he said, urging all sides to recommit to diplomatic channels and to the full implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701.