Starmer backs Lebanon ceasefire, stresses continued support for army

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer held a phone call with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Friday, offering condolences over the victims of recent Israeli strikes on Lebanon and expressing solidarity with the Lebanese people during what he described as a difficult period.

Starmer conveyed the United Kingdom’s readiness to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to help alleviate the suffering of displaced Lebanese families, stressing cooperation with Lebanese official humanitarian agencies to ensure aid delivery.

He also reaffirmed Britain’s continued support for the Lebanese army under the existing bilateral cooperation program.

According to a statement from the presidency, Starmer welcomed the recently announced ceasefire, praising President Aoun's efforts to help secure it.

For his part, President Aoun thanked the British Prime Minister for his positions, saying the UK’s support for Lebanon, particularly for its army, has a strong impact on the Lebanese people and reflects the depth of friendship between the two countries.

Aoun added that Lebanon is now facing a new phase and an opportunity to consolidate security and stability, while extending state authority across all its territory.