Lebanon Seeks Ceasefire as U.S. Offers Guarantees Against Israeli Attacks

BEIRUT: Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced that Lebanon has sought help from the UN Security Council to implement a ceasefire amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Beirut and its southern suburbs. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Mikati disclosed that the U.S. has provided guarantees to de-escalate the situation. According to National News Agency-Lebanon, Prime Minister Mikati stated that the Lebanese government formally requested the UN Security Council to intervene to halt the Israeli offensives. This move comes after receiving assurances from the United States aimed at reducing hostilities. Mikati highlighted that these efforts are part of a broader strategy to eliminate any justifications for Israeli forces to target key Lebanese infrastructures such as Beirut's airport, seaports, and land crossings. During the interview, Mikati expressed that while discussions for a ceasefire are underway at the UN Security Council, no definitive resolution has been agreed upon yet. He reaffirmed the ca pabilities of the Lebanese Army in implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, in collaboration with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). Mikati also dismissed any current considerations regarding Resolution 1559, which he believes could exacerbate internal conflicts within Lebanon. Additionally, the Prime Minister underscored the critical importance of the Taif Agreement in maintaining national stability. He emphasized that the legitimate state forces should have the exclusive authority over arms, which is essential for upholding Lebanon's sovereignty and security.