A plane approaches landing over Beirut, following an escalation between Hezbollah and Israel, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Beirut, Lebanon, on March 16, 2026.
| Photo Credit: Reuters
A “significant Israeli ground offensive” in Lebanon must be averted since it could have devastating humanitarian consequences, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Britain said in a joint statement on Monday (March 16, 2026).
“A significant Israeli ground offensive would have devastating humanitarian consequences and could lead to a protracted conflict,” the countries said.
Iran-Israel war updates on March 16, 2026
“It must be averted. The humanitarian situation in Lebanon, including ongoing mass displacement, is already deeply alarming.”
The statement also said the countries support efforts by the Lebanese government to disarm Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah.
Published – March 17, 2026 05:17 am IST
