Barbock issues alert of potential "military conflict" during Lebanon trip
The Minister sternly insists on "maximum self-restraint" following her encounter with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati in Beirut, and plans to meet with the interim Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib were also made. The Minister strongly emphasized the need to tackle the severe political crisis and blockade afflicting Lebanon, stating that a capable administration is crucial for resolution. Germany declared its readiness to assist Lebanon in achieving stability, 18 million euros of humanitarian aid being earmarked for food, shelter, and medical care for the numerous refugees in the country.
Baerbock commenced her eighth Middle East journey since the onset of the Gaza war in Israel on Monday, delivering a speech at a security conference held at the Reichman University in Herzlia. The day after, she first engaged with the newly appointed Palestinian government leader Mohammed Mustafa in Ramallah in the West Bank, and in the afternoon pressed on toward Lebanon.
Israel's northern border region is governed by the Iran-supported and militarily allied Palestinian organization Hamas, in addition to the Shia militia Hezbollah, which enjoys Iranian backing. Both Hamas and Hezbollah maintain a presence in Lebanon.
Since the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza erupted on October 7, there have been frequent skirmishes at the border. The escalating threats from both parties have stirred concerns of further hostilities in recent days. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz issued a veiled warning to Hezbollah, suggesting that they risk total annihilation in a "full-scale war."
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During her visit to Beirut, Annalena Baerbock urged Najib Mikati and Lebanon's interim Foreign Minister Abdullah Bou Habib to exercise "maximum self-restraint" in the face of potential military conflict. Germany pledged to provide 18 million euros in humanitarian aid to help mitigate the crisis in Lebanon, which is impacting millions of refugees. Baerbock, having visited Israel and the West Bank, expressed concern over the ongoing border skirmishes between Israel and Hamas, whose allies, Hezbollah, also operate in Lebanon. The German Minister also mentioned the escalating threats between Israel and Hezbollah, which could potentially lead to a "full-scale war." As Baerbock concluded her visit in Beirut, she stood at a bar trestle, overlooking the city, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in the region.
