Global Leaders Welcome Lebanon Ceasefire, Call for Lasting Peace and Security

PARIS, Apr 17: International leaders have welcomed the recently announced 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, urging sustained efforts to transform the temporary truce into a long-term framework for peace and stability.

Emmanuel Macron expressed support for the ceasefire, calling for its continuation while stressing key conditions for lasting peace. In a post on X, he said Hezbollah must renounce its weapons, while Israel must respect Lebanon’s sovereignty and bring an end to the conflict.

Germany also underscored the need for a broader diplomatic roadmap. Johann Wadephul welcomed the ceasefire and acknowledged the United States’ role in mediating the agreement. He emphasized that long-term arrangements are now essential, including securing the border, protecting civilians on both sides of the Blue Line, and ensuring the safety of United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon peacekeepers.

Wadephul added that future agreements must balance Israel’s security concerns with Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that lasting regional stability would ultimately require the effective disarmament of Hezbollah.

Meanwhile, Shehbaz Sharif welcomed the truce and expressed hope it would pave the way for sustainable peace. He credited the ceasefire to “bold and sagacious diplomatic efforts” led by Donald Trump and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty.

The coordinated international response reflects cautious optimism that the ceasefire could serve as a stepping stone toward a more durable resolution to tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border.