President of Lebanon: "Israel is pressuring to remove UNIFIL, we demand they remain"
The President of Lebanon has called for the extension of the UNIFIL mandate in southern Lebanon, contrary to emerging agreements. He stated that the international presence is vital for regional stability and helps residents remain in their homes.
The President of Lebanon, Aoun, met with a parliamentary delegation on Monday and welcomed a petition calling for the extension of the international forces' mandate in southern Lebanon.
"Our primary option is to extend the UNIFIL mandate. If that is not possible, the second option is to adopt a format that ensures the continued presence of international forces within a legal framework, working alongside and in coordination with the Lebanese army to support stability," he stated.
His remarks come against the backdrop of recent negotiations between Israel and Lebanon. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Israel and Lebanon have discussed the UK, Italy, Switzerland, and Indonesia as potential contributors to a mechanism designed to verify the disarmament of Hezbollah.
However, the President emphasized that the presence of UNIFIL is crucial for helping residents stay in their villages and towns. The question of which body will oversee the Lebanese army's activities remains a central issue at the negotiating table.
"Israel opposes the presence of UNIFIL and has been exerting pressure in this direction for nearly a year, while we demand they remain," Aoun claimed. The United States has also reiterated its opposition to renewing the UNIFIL mandate; however, under Washington's mediation, Lebanon has agreed to work with Israel on a future outline supporting a tripartite framework.
Although an agreement regarding the deployment of replacement forces remains distant, President Aoun called for a breakthrough to ensure the continuation of an international presence in the south, whether through extending the UNIFIL mandate or through replacement international forces.
