Lebanese president urges UNIFIL mandate renewal amid Israeli opposition
President Joseph Aoun reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to keeping UNIFIL in the south, as Israel pushes for its withdrawal.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has emphasized Lebanon's determination to maintain the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in the southern region, despite opposition from Israel. In a statement, Aoun expressed Lebanon's preference to either extend UNIFIL's mandate or to establish an alternative arrangement involving Lebanese participation if a mandate renewal proves unfeasible.
The Lebanese president clarified that UNIFIL's presence plays a crucial role in enabling residents to remain in their towns and enhances stability, working in collaboration with the Lebanese Armed Forces, particularly in light of the existing security challenges in southern areas. Aoun highlighted Israel's stance against the continued presence of international forces, as they pressure for their withdrawal, whereas Lebanon firmly stands by their support for security, stability, and the protection of local communities.
The president underscored the significance of sustained cooperation between UNIFIL and the Lebanese army, and affirmed Lebanon's willingness to engage in discussions about an alternative arrangement involving Lebanese participation should the international force's mandate not be renewed.
Written by urgent.news from Ajel English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
