Canada tells Israel that Lebanon’s sovereignty ‘must not be violated

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Ottawa: Canada has strongly condemned Israel’s plans to occupy parts of southern Lebanon, warning that the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity ‘must not be violated’ as tensions escalate.

The statement comes as Israel prepares for a potential ground invasion that could extend up to 30km into southern Lebanon, reaching the Litani River. The escalation follows weeks of intensified strikes that have left at least 1,072 people dead and nearly 3,000 injured since the start of the month.

The violence has displaced more than one million people across southern and eastern Lebanon, as well as the capital, Beirut, raising fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis.

In a statement, Global Affairs Canada expressed solidarity with Lebanon and urged all parties to adhere to international law, calling for the protection of civilians, infrastructure, healthcare workers, and peacekeepers.

France also voiced concern, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot warning that any ground operation would have ‘major humanitarian consequences’ and worsen an already dire situation.

Israel has said its military intends to establish a ‘security zone’ up to the Litani River. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that displaced Lebanese civilians would not be allowed to return to areas south of the river until security is ensured for northern Israel.

The rhetoric has intensified further, with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich calling for the annexation of southern Lebanon and suggesting a permanent shift in Israel’s borders.

On the ground, Israeli forces have stepped up operations, including airstrikes on infrastructure such as bridges over the Litani River and residential areas near the border.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun described a recent strike on the Qasmiyeh Bridge as a ‘prelude to ground invasion’.

According to Lebanon’s health authorities, at least nine people were killed in the latest wave of Israeli attacks on Wednesday, including strikes on the southern town of Adloun, the Mieh Mieh refugee camp, and Habboush.

Meanwhile, tensions have also spilled into northern Israel, where a woman was killed following rocket fire from Lebanon, as air raid sirens forced residents into shelters.

The situation continues to escalate, with growing international concern over the risk of a broader conflict and worsening humanitarian conditions in the region.