Defense Minister Meets UN’s Lacroix.

Beirut: Caretaker Defense Minister, Maurice Sleem, met Thursday with Undersecretary-General for Peace Operations at the United Nations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, in the presence of UNIFIL Commander, Major General Aroldo Lazaro, and an accompanying delegation. The meeting focused on the ongoing cooperation between Lebanon and the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Sleem expressed appreciation for UNIFIL's positions and sacrifices, particularly in light of recent Israeli attacks on its sites. He emphasized Lebanon's commitment to maintaining the peacekeeping mission's presence in the country. Sleem reiterated that adherence to UN Resolution 1701 remains the foundation for any lasting solution. The resolution, adopted in 2006, calls for a cessation of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel and outlines the framework for peacekeeping efforts in the region.