Beirut: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, has conveyed to British Foreign Secretary David Lammy the challenges faced by Lebanon due to the continued Israeli occupation and aggression. This conversation took place during their meeting at Baabda Palace, attended by British Ambassador to Lebanon Hamish Coyle.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, President Aoun expressed his desire for ongoing British support for Lebanon, particularly in international forums such as the UN Security Council concerning the extension of the UNIFIL mandate. He emphasized the importance of UN forces in implementing Resolution 1701, given the current regional situation.
President Aoun informed the British Foreign Secretary that the Lebanese Army has been deployed south of the Litani River, except in areas still occupied by Israel, notably the five hilltops which Israel has not vacated. This occupation persists despite an agreement reached last November, facilitated by American and French mediation and supported by the international community.
He highlighted that the Lebanese Army will maintain a force of 10,000 soldiers in the area, ensuring no other armed forces, apart from the Lebanese security forces and UNIFIL, are present. Aoun asserted that the occupation of these strategically insignificant hills hinders peace and stability in the region.
The President also pointed out that Israel's actions, including holding Lebanese prisoners and committing hostilities reaching Beirut's outskirts, complicate the state's efforts to enforce authority and protect its citizens. Aoun urged the need for international pressure on Israel to withdraw its forces, provide guarantees against further attacks, and fully comply with Resolution 1701.
President Aoun expressed gratitude to Britain for its support, particularly the construction and equipping of border watchtowers, which bolster stability on the southern border. He reassured the Foreign Secretary of Lebanon's commitment to reforms, emphasizing that they are a national priority.
Foreign Secretary Lammy reaffirmed the robust British-Lebanese relations and the commitment of Britain to support Lebanon in various sectors, especially military. He noted that the UK is attentively monitoring Lebanon's developments since President Aoun's election.