Iraqi president calls Lebanese counterpart to condemn Israeli strikes

BAGHDAD — President Abdul Latif Rashid called Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Thursday to express solidarity with Lebanon and condemn ongoing Israeli strikes, calling on the international community to act to halt the escalation.

Rashid affirmed “Iraq’s solidarity, its presidency, government and people, with the brotherly Lebanese people,” voicing “strong condemnation of the aggression they are facing” and reiterating Iraq’s support for Lebanon’s security and sovereignty. He called on the international community to “assume its responsibilities to stop the escalation and ensure all parties respect de-escalation and halt military operations.”

Israeli forces carried out around 100 airstrikes Wednesday targeting central Beirut, the southern suburbs, the Bekaa region and southern Lebanon, with Lebanese media reporting extensive damage, dozens of casualties and a state of emergency in Beirut hospitals. The strikes came after Israel said the U.S.-Iran ceasefire does not include Lebanon, and has continued its campaign against Hezbollah positions.