Czech president: Israel's security should not come at expense of other Mideast countries

Czech President Petr Pavel on Tuesday said that Israel's security should not come at the expense of the security of other countries in the Middle East, stressing the need for a broader regional approach to peace. According to a report by Radio Prag International, Pavel said that ensuring long-term stability across the entire region must be a priority. He added that it was important to actively support all initiatives aimed at ending the conflict.

Czech support for Israel

The comments came as the Czech Republic continues to express strong support for Israel. On Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu thanked Czech Foreign Minister Petr Macinka and Prime Minister Andrej Babis for what he described as the country's consistent backing. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar also met with Macinka on Tuesday and praised him as a "friend," describing the Czech Republic as "one of Israel's greatest allies worldwide."

Broader regional context

The Czech government has maintained a longstanding position of support for Israel, even as calls grow internationally for efforts to reduce tensions and promote wider regional security. Pavel's remarks suggest a recognition that while Israel's security is important, it must be balanced with the security concerns of other regional actors.

Conflict context

The comments come amid ongoing hostilities following the US-Israeli war on Iran, which began Feb. 28, and Israel's ground offensive in Lebanon. A two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran remains in place, though Israel has stated the truce does not include Lebanon.