BRUSSELS

A potential Israeli ground offensive in southern Lebanon could have "devastating humanitarian consequences" and lead to a "protracted conflict," Western leaders warned Monday, urging all parties to pursue immediate de-escalation.

In a joint statement, the leaders of Canada, France, Germany, Italy and the UK expressed "grave concern" over the escalating violence in Lebanon and the wider Middle East.

They cautioned that a large-scale ground operation "must be averted" as it risks worsening the already dire humanitarian situation and triggering long-term instability.

"We strongly support initiatives to facilitate talks and urge for immediate de-escalation," the leaders urged.

The Israeli army expanded airstrikes across Lebanon, including the capital Beirut, on March 2 following a cross-border attack by Hezbollah in the wake of a joint offensive by Washington and Tel Aviv against Iran.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz confirmed early Monday that the army has begun a ground offensive in Lebanon.

The attacks have killed more than 800 people, including women and children, and displaced nearly a million.

The statement underscored that attacks targeting civilians, health workers, infrastructure, and UN personnel are "unacceptable" and called on Israeli and Lebanese representatives to engage in meaningful negotiations and to act in line with international humanitarian law.

"A significant Israeli ground offensive would have devastating humanitarian consequences and could lead to a protracted conflict. It must be averted. The humanitarian situation in Lebanon, including ongoing mass displacement, is already deeply alarming," the statement said.

The five nations also reiterated support for the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, aimed at stabilizing the border region and disarming Hezbollah.