Lebanon

The statement below details Jean Lambert's response to the situation in Lebanon.

I am horrified by what is happening in Lebanon - which has only very recently begun to experience real independence after years of conflict and effective occupation by both Israel and Syria. Given Lebanon's recent history, I do not find it surprising that the disarming of Hizbollah has not yet taken place - it has taken years to achieve even something of that with the IRA.

I consider the British and US Governments to be complicit in allowing the Israeli Government to act outside the confines of international law. I consider Israeli action in both Gaza and Lebanon to be disproportionate, collective punishment. The British and US Governments should have supported the UN in calling for a ceasefire, pushing for a negotiated settlement and an international UN stabilising force. I am deeply disappointed by the failure of the Rome conference to issue a clear statement in support of the UN position. Israel has clearly interpreted the lack of such a statement as a green light to continue its military action both in Lebanon and Gaza.

Israeli action, in face of severe provocation, will only make a peaceful, sustainable outcome more difficult. It seems to have brought Hamas and Al-Fatah closer together and could act as a recruitment tool for Hizbollah. Instead of strengthening Lebanese independence, it opens the way for Syria and Iran to become more closely involved.

I am sure the Green Group in the European Parliament will renew its calls for the suspension of the EU-Israel agreement and reiterate our demands for Israel to pay the tax money which is due to the Palestinian authorities. Failed states are not in the interests of their own citizens or the international community. We also support the need for international humanitarian aid. To that end, the EU needs to release funds to support UNHCR and assist it diplomatically in getting assistance to affected areas.

Although it is difficult for the EU to speak with one voice on this matter, given the position of the UK Government, I welcome reports that the Finnish Presidency of the EU has made it clear that the EU has not given a green light to Israel to continue its military activities. However, I have written to the EU President, as well as to the Commission and the President of the European Parliament, raising the above issues. I have also signed a joint letter from the peace movement to Tony Blair.

Jean Lambert MEP