Germany FM Urges Diplomatic Solution During Beirut Visit

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has called for a diplomatic resolution to the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.

Upon arriving in Beirut on Wednesday, Baerbock emphasized the need to collaborate with partners in the U.S., Europe, and the Arab world to develop a viable diplomatic solution that addresses the security concerns of both Israel and Lebanon.

She warned that a full destabilization of Lebanon would be disastrous for the Middle East’s most religiously diverse country and the broader region.

Baerbock expressed concern about Lebanon’s fragile state, describing the country as “on the brink of collapse.” She also urged all parties involved in the conflict to ensure the safety of United Nations peacekeepers stationed along the Israeli-Lebanese border, stating that “any deliberate attack on U.N. peacekeepers violates international humanitarian law.”

This marks Baerbock’s 12th visit to the region following Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.