UN Security Council Condemns Israeli Strikes in Lebanon, Calls for Withdrawal

UNITED NATIONS — The United Nations Security Council on Sunday overwhelmingly condemned Israeli military strikes in Lebanon, calling for an immediate withdrawal of troops and an end to hostilities following a significant escalation of violence in the region.

The resolution, adopted with strong backing from France, the United Kingdom, Russia, and China, marks a sharp rebuke of Israel’s recent military operations. Council members expressed deep concern over the intensification of Israeli actions despite the existence of a ceasefire agreement. The vote reflects growing international pressure to prevent renewed occupation and to avert further civilian casualties in southern Lebanon.

Israel, which did not attend the emergency session, has maintained that its military operations are necessary defensive measures against cross-border attacks. The country has not formally responded to the Security Council’s latest demands. U.S. officials, while expressing concern over the escalation, stopped short of endorsing the full text of the resolution, citing the need to balance regional security with diplomatic solutions.

The crisis has intensified since early May, when renewed clashes erupted along the Lebanon-Israel border. Israeli airstrikes have targeted infrastructure and military positions, while Hezbollah has launched rocket fire into northern Israel. The latest round of violence has displaced thousands of civilians and damaged critical infrastructure in both countries.

France and the United Kingdom led the diplomatic push for the resolution, arguing that the current trajectory risks a wider regional conflict. Russia and China joined the effort, emphasizing the need to uphold international law and protect civilians. The two permanent members of the Security Council also highlighted the importance of respecting Lebanon’s sovereignty.

The resolution calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of all foreign military forces from Lebanese territory, and the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to assist displaced populations. It also urges all parties to engage in direct negotiations under UN auspices.

Despite the strong language of the resolution, enforcement remains uncertain. The United States, a key ally of Israel, has historically used its veto power to block resolutions critical of Israeli military actions. While Washington did not veto this measure, its reluctance to fully endorse the text signals ongoing divisions within the international community.

The Security Council is expected to reconvene later this week to assess compliance with the resolution. Diplomatic efforts are intensifying behind the scenes, with envoys from several nations traveling to the region to mediate between the conflicting parties.

As of Sunday evening, no formal response had been issued by Israel or Hezbollah regarding the Security Council’s demands. The situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation if diplomatic efforts fail to produce a breakthrough.