Turkish Foreign Ministry condemns Israel’s attacks on Lebanon as ‘occupation attempt’

Duvar English

The Turkish Foreign Ministry on Oct. 1 condemned Israel's ground operation into Lebanon, calling it an "unlawful occupation attempt." 

The ministry urged an immediate end to the attack, and that Israeli soldiers must withdraw from Lebanese territory.

"The assault targets not only the security and stability of regional countries but also those beyond the region. This dangerous occupation attempt will likely trigger a new wave of migration and embolden extremists worldwide. It should not be forgotten that these developments will also impact the countries providing political support and arms to Israel," continued the statement. 

The ministry urged the United Nations Security Council to uphold international law and take the necessary measures against this attack on Lebanon's sovereignty. "Every crime committed by Israel is also a blow to international law and the UN Charter," it said.

The statement continued, "Moreover, the primary step toward restoring calm in the region is achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza. Bringing peace to Gaza is a responsibility for all of humanity."

The death toll in Lebanon surpassed 1,700 since Israel has struck targets in Beirut and elsewhere in the country during a two-week wave of attacks, according to the Lebanese government. Many more have fled their homes.

Israel said commando and paratroop units launched raids into Lebanon on Oct. 1 as part of a "limited" ground incursion, while Iran-backed Hezbollah said it had fired a barrage of missiles into Israel, including at its spy agency near Tel Aviv.

The raids by Israeli troops in southern Lebanon that began overnight were limited and went only a short distance over the border, an Israeli security official said on Tuesday, adding that no direct clashes with Hezbollah fighters were reported.