Russia has called for the ongoing Middle East ceasefire between the United States and Iran to be expanded to include Lebanon, warning that continued Israeli operations risk undermining the fragile agreement.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov conveyed the position during a phone call with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, stating that the ceasefire should have a broader regional scope, particularly covering Lebanon. Moscow emphasized that the sustainability of the truce depends on halting hostilities beyond direct US-Iran engagements.
In a separate statement, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova criticized ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon, warning that such actions could derail the emerging diplomatic process.
Separately, Austria urged Israel to immediately halt attacks on civilian targets and infrastructure in Lebanon. Vienna also called for the safety of its personnel deployed as part of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
Austria currently contributes around 160 troops to the UN peacekeeping mission, which includes approximately 7,500 personnel tasked with logistical and support operations such as transport, maintenance, and emergency response.
The statements come as Israeli operations against Hezbollah continue, raising concerns among international actors that escalating violence in Lebanon could jeopardize ongoing ceasefire efforts and broader regional stability.