Keir Starmer urges lasting solution as Israel and Hezbollah ceasefire deal announced

The Prime Minister has welcomed a ceasefire in Lebanon and urged for the agreement to evolve into a "lasting political solution" for the ongoing turmoil.

Announced Tuesday evening, the pact stipulates a 60-day cessation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-supported militants, requiring a pullout from southern Lebanon. The truce, orchestrated by the United States and France, aims to definitively halt the fighting, as highlighted by US President Joe Biden.

However, Israeli officials have made it clear that military action on Lebanon would recommence should Hezbollah violate the ceasefire conditions. This arrangement does not extend to the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Sir Keir Starmer heralded the ceasefire as "long overdue", recognising its potential to bring solace to civilians in both Lebanon and northern Israel who have been tormented by the recent dreadful warfare. He added: “Now, this deal must be turned into a lasting political solution in Lebanon, based on Security Council Resolution 1701, that will allow civilians to return permanently to their homes and for communities on both sides of the border to rebuild."

Anticipating an active role for Britain and its allies, Sir Keir stressed their commitment to disrupting the enduring cycle of violence and fostering durable serenity in the Middle East. "We must see immediate progress towards a ceasefire deal in Gaza, the release of all hostages and the removal of restrictions on desperately needed humanitarian aid," he said.

The ceasefire deal announcement followed a day of intense Israeli air strikes on Beirut, which local authorities report claimed at least 24 lives. At the same time Hezbollah continued its rocket attacks into northern Israel.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recommended the ceasefire to his cabinet, arguing that it would isolate Hamas in Gaza and allow Israel to concentrate on Iran, widely recognised as a supporter of both Hamas and Hezbollah — factions that have launched hostilities against Israel recently. As humanitarian organisations express their approval of the ceasefire, they insist on its permanence and an expansion that includes Gaza.

Amelia Whitworth, head of policy, campaigns and youth at Plan International UK, stated: "It is essential that all parties respect this ceasefire so that vital humanitarian aid can be delivered to the children and families that desperately need it."