Russia demands immediate Israeli ceasefire, troop withdrawal from Lebanon

Russia on Thursday called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory, reaffirming its support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Speaking at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said: “We strongly call for a prompt ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli military forces from Lebanese territory.”

Political settlement based on Resolution 1701

Zakharova stated that a ceasefire would create conditions for launching a political and diplomatic settlement process based on UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which outlines the obligations of the parties. She reaffirmed Moscow’s support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity, and said Russia is ready to work with regional and international partners to achieve sustainable long‑term normalisation in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.

Continued Israeli occupation

Israel occupies areas in southern Lebanon, some held for decades and others seized during the 2023‑2024 conflict, including advances more than 10 kilometres into Lebanese territory — the deepest incursion since 2000. Lebanese officials report that since March 2, Israeli attacks have killed more than 3,500 people and injured over 10,000.