Lebanese President: Ending Hostilities with Israel is a Priority

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has declared that ending hostilities with Israel is Beirut’s top priority, during a meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington on Tuesday. Aoun has been on an official visit to Washington since Sunday, engaging in discussions with the US government on issues related to conflict resolution and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon. Speaking at the White House, Aoun stated that Lebanon would adhere to the framework agreement previously reached with Israel, which he said would not trigger a civil war in Lebanon. The framework agreement, signed by Lebanon and Israel in Washington on 26 June, outlines the restoration of Lebanese army control over the country’s southern territory and the disarmament of Hezbollah. Despite the agreement, Israel continues to launch strikes into Lebanon almost daily and maintains a military presence in the south, which has led to the displacement of much of the local population.