Five Western Leaders Warn Against Israeli Ground Operation in Lebanon; France Doubles Humanitarian Aid

Leaders of five Western nations issued a joint declaration that a large-scale Israeli ground operation in Lebanon 'must be avoided,' as the Lebanon death toll surpasses 1,000. France doubled its humanitarian aid commitment during Foreign Minister Barrot's March 19 'solidarity visit' to Beirut. The statement creates diplomatic friction with Netanyahu, who signaled a ground component may be necessary to achieve war objectives.