Baabda:Baabda Palace: President Joseph Aoun met with U.S. Congressmen Darin LaHood and Josh Gottheimer to advocate for U.S. intervention in pressuring Israel to fulfill the 'Framework Agreement' established through Lebanese-U.S.-Israeli negotiations in Washington.
According to National news agency - Lebanon, President Aoun emphasized Lebanon's commitment to the agreement and criticized Israel's continued non-compliance. He highlighted the ongoing demolition and destruction activities in southern villages under Israeli occupation and called for swift action to address these issues. This includes the release of Lebanese detainees, resolving disputes along the Blue Line, and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces to allow the Lebanese Army to extend authority to the southern borders.
Aoun warned that Israel's delay in implementing the agreement exacerbates tensions, hindering Lebanon's efforts to assert control over its southern territories, remove armed manifestations, and facilitate the return of displaced residents. He expressed disappointment over Israel's lack of reciprocal cooperation despite Lebanon's compliance.
He urged the U.S. delegation to ensure the Lebanese Army receives the necessary resources to extend state authority, emphasizing its crucial role in combating terrorism, securing borders, and maintaining civil peace, despite its limited capacities.
President Aoun also reiterated the Lebanese government's dedication to financial, economic, and judicial reforms, noting progress with several enacted laws, including amendments to the Banking Secrecy Law, the Banking Restructuring Law, and the Media Law.
U.S. Representative Darin LaHood commended President Aoun's efforts to protect Lebanon's sovereignty and independence and praised the outcomes of Aoun's meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. LaHood reaffirmed the United States' commitment to Lebanon and the Lebanese army through ongoing military assistance approved by Congress. He emphasized that Lebanon has a significant opportunity to restore stability to the region, which should not be missed.
