Lebanon and Israel should seize the opportunity for direct talks during the ongoing U.S.-Iran ceasefire, foreign ministers from more than a dozen countries, including France, Spain, Australia and the United Kingdom, said in a joint statement issued Tuesday.
The ministers welcomed an initiative by Lebanese President Michel Aoun to open direct negotiations with Israel, as well as Israel's willingness to engage in U.S.-facilitated talks, according to the statement.
"Direct negotiations can pave the way for lasting security for Lebanon, Israel and the wider region. We stand ready to support these efforts," the statement said, urging all parties to urgently de-escalate and take advantage of the ceasefire window.
The statement condemned the attacks of Hezbollah against Israel which must cease immediately, as well as the massive Israeli strikes on Lebanon conducted on April 8.
Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected in accordance with international humanitarian law, said the statement.
Israel continued attacks on Lebanon after a ceasefire was announced between the U.S. and Iran, as Israel said the two-week truce does not extend to Lebanon.
The country even expanded its ground offensive in Lebanon on Monday, a day before Israeli and Lebanese officials are due to begin direct talks in Washington.
The Israeli attacks on Lebanon since March 2 have killed 2,124 and wounded 6,921, according to a statement by Lebanon's Public Health Emergency Operation Center on Tuesday.
The center noted that 35 were killed and 159 others wounded across Lebanon during the day.
More than dozen countries urge Lebanon, Israel to seize opportunity for direct talks
