Baabda: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, on Thursday affirmed Lebanon's unwavering commitment to implementing the Cabinet's decision on exclusive state control over arms, during a meeting today at Baabda Palace with Arab League Assistant Secretary-General Ambassador Hossam Zaki.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the President stated that the resolution has been officially communicated to Arab and international partners, including the United Nations and the United States via envoy Thomas Barak. Aoun further stressed that Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory, the release of detainees, and full implementation of UNSC Resolution 1701 are now essential for Lebanon to assert sovereignty over its territory using its own forces.
Moreover, President Aoun welcomed Arab support, noting that the international community broadly understands and endorses Lebanon's position. In turn, Ambassador Zaki conveyed greetings from Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit and reiterated the League's support for Lebanon's sovereignty, state authority, and the disarmament of non-state actors, as endorsed in the Baghdad Summit resolution.
Speaking to reporters, Zaki praised Lebanon's leadership and affirmed the League's alignment with Lebanese calls for international pressure on Israel to comply with ceasefire terms and respect Lebanon's sovereignty. Zaki went on to express concern over recent internal political rhetoric, warning that although common in other societies, such tensions in Lebanon carry heightened risks due to regional instability. He urged political actors to act with wisdom to preserve civil peace and national stability.
On the role of international mediation, Zaki confirmed that the U.S. envoy remains the key intermediary, accepted by both Lebanon and Israel, and emphasized Washington's responsibility to ensure Israeli adherence to its commitments. 'Only then,' he said, 'can Lebanon proceed with its own obligations.'
In response to questions, Zaki ruled out any imminent Arab summit dedicated to Lebanon, stating that while media discourse is heated, the situation remains political and does not currently warrant an extraordinary summit. On regional developments and Israeli expansionist rhetoric, Zaki reaffirmed the Arab League's strong condemnation, pointing to a recent official statement rejecting 'Greater Israel' narratives and denouncing any regional destabilization efforts.