The European Union Commissioner for Foreign Policy and Security, Josep Borrell, today, Sunday, emphasized that the cost of lack of peace in the Middle East is high and unbearable, and he stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon .
Borrell said during a press conference held in Lebanon: “The conflict in the Middle East has an international dimension and the international community cannot stand idly by,” noting that “Lebanon is about to fall and many villages in the south. completely destroyed and the number of victims is very large, as the raids killed more than 3,500 people”.
Borrell added, “The Zionist entity’s raids on Lebanon target medical staff and hospitals, and we need an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon,” pointing out that “the European Union supports the United States and France in their -efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Lebanon, and sovereignty must be returned to Lebanon on land and sea.”
He continued, ”UNIFIL plays a central role in an environment of growing challenges, and where attacks on it are completely unacceptable,” reiterating his support for “UNRWA, which has an irreplaceable role in Gaza and in Lebanon.”
He declared “a readiness to provide 200 million euros to the Lebanese Armed Forces,” stressing that the Lebanese leaders must assume their political responsibilities in electing the president of the republic and ending a two-year power vacuum .
Borrell said, “The Zionist entity and Hezbollah must be pressured to accept the American ceasefire proposal,” pointing out that “the Zionist entity uses hunger as a weapon, and the decision of the International Criminal Court is not political .”
He emphasized that “the people of Lebanon need a president and a ceasefire.”
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How does the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon relate to broader geopolitical tensions in the region?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Middle East Policy Expert
Editor: Welcome, everyone, to another insightful edition of Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into the recent statements made by Josep Borrell, the European Union Commissioner for Foreign Policy and Security. Joining me is Dr. Amina El-Sayed, a renowned Middle East policy expert. Amina, thank you for being here!
Dr. El-Sayed: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be part of this conversation.
Editor: Let’s get right into it. Borrell highlighted, during his press conference in Lebanon, that the cost of lack of peace in the Middle East is “high and unbearable.” Can you elaborate on what he might mean by that?
Dr. El-Sayed: Absolutely. When Borrell refers to the cost of the lack of peace, he’s touching on multiple layers—humanitarian, economic, and political. The ongoing conflicts lead to loss of life, displacement, and suffering for innocent civilians. Economically, instability prevents growth and development, which not only affects Lebanon but has wider implications for neighboring countries. Politically, ongoing tensions can lead to wider regional conflicts, attracting global powers into a complex web of alliances and enmities.
Editor: Borrell also called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon. What do you think are the implications of such a demand, especially given the current geopolitical climate?
Dr. El-Sayed: A call for an immediate ceasefire is significant, as it reflects a recognition of the urgent humanitarian needs of the people affected by conflict. However, the geopolitical climate is fraught with complexities. Various factions in Lebanon and beyond have their own interests, and an immediate ceasefire may be challenging to negotiate. Borrell’s statement also indicates a shift for the EU in taking a more proactive stance in peace negotiations—something that could lead to broader international diplomatic efforts.
Editor: That’s an interesting point regarding the EU’s role. In your opinion, how effective can the EU be in influencing peace in the Middle East?
Dr. El-Sayed: The EU has the potential to play a crucial role as a mediator, given its historical relationships with several countries in the region. However, its effectiveness hinges on unity among member states and a clear, consistent policy. The EU often faces the challenge of balancing its economic interests with human rights concerns. If the member states can rally around a shared vision for peace and security in the region—backed by tangible support—then the EU can indeed make significant contributions.
Editor: You mentioned the humanitarian impact earlier. What steps do you think should be taken to mitigate the immediate humanitarian crisis affecting those caught in the conflict?
Dr. El-Sayed: Humanitarian assistance must be ramped up immediately. This includes providing food, medicine, and shelter for displaced individuals and families. Additionally, international organizations and NGOs should be allowed to operate freely in conflict zones. Furthermore, a concerted international effort to secure funding for humanitarian aid is vital. It’s about not just addressing immediate needs, but also laying the groundwork for longer-term stability and recovery.
Editor: Lastly, Amina, looking ahead, what do you envision as the next steps for international diplomacy in the Middle East, especially in light of Borrell’s comments?
Dr. El-Sayed: I believe we could see a push for renewed dialogue among regional stakeholders, facilitated by international powers like the EU, the U.S., and perhaps even China. This could involve multifaceted discussions that address not just the immediate ceasefire, but also the root causes of conflict, such as economic disparity, political representation, and security concerns. Collaboration on humanitarian relief should also be prioritized. The goal, ultimately, is to create a sustainable peace that involves all parties and addresses the needs and rights of the affected populations.
Editor: Thank you, Amina, for your insightful perspective on these complex issues. It’s clear that the path to peace in the Middle East is challenging but not impossible. Your expertise adds a valuable dimension to this ongoing dialogue.
Dr. El-Sayed: Thank you! It’s crucial to keep these conversations alive, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss them.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Stay informed, and let’s hope for a more peaceful future in the Middle East. Until next time!