Beirut: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, underscored the urgent need for international pressure on Israel to adhere to international laws and agreements during a meeting with a delegation from the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. He called for a halt to the targeting of civilians, paramedics, emergency responders, civil defense personnel, and humanitarian, medical, and relief organizations.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, President Aoun highlighted the continuous Israeli violations in southern Lebanon, which persist despite a declared ceasefire. These violations include the demolition of homes and places of worship, with the number of casualties and wounded increasing daily. He noted that emergency responders and volunteers are not spared from these attacks, with approximately 17 paramedics from the Lebanese Red Cross and other humanitarian organizations killed so far, including the targeting of journalists.
President Aoun praised the dedication of volunteers working to rescue the injured, describing their actions as the pinnacle of sacrifice and selflessness in service to their humanitarian mission. He emphasized that these rescue missions are reported in advance to ensure necessary protection, yet volunteers continue to face martyrdom.
Aoun reiterated the call for international assistance in determining the status of Lebanese detainees in Israeli prisons. He stated that Israel has refused to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to contact these detainees, check on their health, and provide reassurance to their families and the Lebanese government.