Australia, Canada Push to Expand Middle East Ceasefire to Lebanon

CANBERRA / OTTAWA, Apr 9: Australia and Canada have called for Lebanon to be included in the recently announced two-week Middle East ceasefire, warning that lasting peace in the region depends on broader inclusion.

Speaking on Thursday, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the ceasefire as “an important step forward,” while cautioning that it remains fragile. He emphasized that the truce must extend beyond its current scope.

“Of course, it is a fragile peace, but we want it to lead to an agreement,” Albanese said, adding that Australia “firmly believes” Lebanon must be part of the arrangement to ensure regional stability.

Separately, Canada echoed the call following diplomatic talks with Pakistan. Foreign Minister Anita Anand said Ottawa is prepared to support upcoming negotiations aimed at reinforcing the ceasefire.

In a statement, Anand revealed she had held multiple discussions with Pakistan’s foreign minister Ishaq Dar, who indicated that new negotiations are expected later this week.

Anand thanked Pakistan for its role in helping secure the current ceasefire and stressed that both countries agree the truce must hold and be expanded to include Lebanon.

“We agreed on the need for the ceasefire to hold and extend to Lebanon, and to remain in close contact as discussions move forward,” she said.

The coordinated stance from Australia, Canada, and Pakistan highlights growing international pressure to widen the ceasefire framework as diplomatic efforts continue to stabilize the region.