On Monday 24 June, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, voiced his concerns about the rising tensions between Israel and Hezbollah, which are at an all-time high, and at a time when the leader of Hezbollah has openly made threats towards Cyprus.
“Every day, the crisis spreads. Every day, bomb attacks multiply on both sides of the border with Lebanon. We are on the eve of the war expanding”, said Mr Borrell, emphasising his concerns.
He gave his support to the mediation efforts that are underway, notably those of the United States and France, to avoid a confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah.
“Lebanon can count on our support, as can Cyprus”, added the High Representative. Earlier in the day, Greek minister George Gerapetritis lent his support to his Cypriot neighbour, saying that it was unacceptable to threaten a sovereign EU state.
According to draft conclusions seen by Agence Europe, on 27 and 28 June, the European Council is set to call on “all actors to exercise restraint, prevent new tensions and participate in international diplomatic efforts”. It might also invite the European Commission and the High Representative to continue working on strengthening EU support for Lebanon, including the Lebanese armed forces.
Furthermore, while many ministers also called for a ceasefire on their arrival at the EU Council – to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza and permit the release of hostages – the High Representative did not fail to express his distress at the situation (see other news). “Three weeks after Biden’s proposal, and despite strong international support, we are nowhere in terms of a ceasefire”, he lamented, adding that neither side had the desire to implement it.
Sanctions. In addition, the High Representative also announced a political agreement between ministers on new sanctions against Hamas and violent settlers. “This will be converted into measures that will be rapidly adopted by written procedure”, he promised. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)