Brazil condemns attacks in Lebanon, tells Brazilians to leave area
The Brazilian government on Monday (Sep. 23) condemned “in the strongest terms” the ongoing Israeli air strikes against civilian areas in Beirut, southern Lebanon, and the Beqaa Valley. The Ministry of Foreign Relations also recommended that Brazilians leave the conflict area.
Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah group have been exchanging fire across the border since the start of the war in Gaza last year, triggered by an attack by Hamas, Hezbollah’s ally. Last week, Israel stepped up its military campaign. The Monday attacks caused at least 492 deaths and left over 1,600 injured.
In a statement, the Brazilian Foreign Ministry deplored the declarations by Israeli authorities in favor of military operations and the occupation of part of Lebanese territory, and expressed “grave concern” at the Israeli government’s calls for Lebanese civilians to evacuate their homes in those areas.
“Brazil renews its appeal to the parties involved to immediately cease the attacks, in order to stop the worrying escalation of tensions, which threatens to lead the region into a conflict of wide proportions, with a severe negative impact on civilians.”
Assistance
The Brazilian embassy in Beirut continues to provide assistance and guidance to the Brazilian community, with which it maintains permanent contact, the ministry stated.
“The Brazilian government is monitoring the impact of the conflict on the community with concern and attention.”
*With information from Reuters
