According to Reuters, Russia has urged Israel to withdraw its troops from Lebanon, cautioning that the ongoing military operations could escalate violence in the Middle East. In a statement issued by the Russian foreign ministry, officials strongly condemned Israel's ground operations that commenced earlier this week.
The statement read, "Russia strongly condemns the attack on Lebanon and calls on the Israeli authorities to immediately cease hostilities, withdraw their troops from Lebanese territory and engage in a real search for peaceful ways to resolve the Middle East conflict."
The Israeli military has reported that its commando and paratroop units have conducted what they describe as "limited" raids into southern Lebanon. These incursions are part of a broader strategy targeting Hezbollah positions, which Israel claims pose a direct threat to its northern communities.
The situation escalated further when Hezbollah retaliated with a barrage of missiles aimed at Israel, including strikes targeting its intelligence agency near Tel Aviv.
Russia's statement underscored that Israel's military actions, particularly following the assassination of several Hezbollah leaders, would likely heighten tensions in the region. It warned, "It is obvious that such a step taken by the Israeli military and political leadership will lead to a further escalation of violence in the Middle East region."
This recent round of hostilities has emerged within an already unstable context, following extensive Israeli airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Reports indicate that these attacks have led to over 1,000 fatalities and more than 2,900 injuries, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry, which has reported a deteriorating humanitarian situation.
As military operations escalate, both sides are preparing for potential further confrontations. Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, stated that the military would utilize all necessary means to secure national safety, while Hezbollah has pledged to continue its resistance against Israeli incursions.
The international community is closely watching these developments, with many leaders calling for restraint and advocating for diplomatic efforts to avert further violence. The United Nations has expressed concern regarding the humanitarian consequences of ongoing military actions in Lebanon and Gaza, where civilian casualties continue to rise.
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