Lebanese president seeks security deal with Israel after troop withdrawal

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is seeking a security agreement with Israel following the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanese territory, according to a statement made prior to his visit to France. Aoun emphasized that Lebanon has "no choice" but to engage in negotiations, warning that the alternative would lead to a costly war. The primary objective, he stated, is to eliminate hostility and establish security along the border, rather than progressing directly to a peace treaty.

Aoun reiterated Lebanon's commitment to disarming Hezbollah, asserting that this decision was "neither negotiable nor open to discussion." However, he stressed that Beirut is determined to resolve the issue peacefully and avoid confrontation or another civil war. The immediate goal is not a confrontation, he said, but rather a peaceful resolution.

With the UN peacekeeping mission UNIFIL set to conclude its mandate on December 31, 2026, Aoun called for an interim international force to prevent a security vacuum in the south while the Lebanese army expands its deployment. He suggested that an interim force from Europe, the Arab world, Asia, the United States, or the United Nations would be acceptable if necessary. Aoun also expressed no objection to relations with Iran, provided they were based on mutual respect and non-interference in Lebanese affairs.

Regarding Israel's upcoming elections, Aoun emphasized that the key issue for Lebanon is whether future Israeli governments prioritize "stability, security, and no wars" along their border.