Lebanon considers UNIFIL's continuation the best option

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated on Friday (24/7) that maintaining the presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) is currently the best option, adding that if the mission cannot be continued, a replacement force would need to be established.

Earlier that day, Aoun met the European Union Ambassador to Lebanon, Sandra de Waele, together with a delegation of ambassadors and chargés d’affaires from European countries in Beirut.

During the meeting, the Lebanese President called on the European Union to support the implementation of the framework agreement with Israel reached in Washington on 26 June. He stressed that Lebanon’s stability is directly linked to stability in the region.

“Maintaining UNIFIL is the best option for the coming period. If that proves impossible, then an alternative force must be established to replace it,” Aoun said.

He also described his meeting with United States President Donald Trump on 21 July as productive.

Meanwhile, the EU Ambassador to Lebanon said that Lebanon is at a turning point and entering a new phase. According to her, the European Union will continue to support the country’s efforts to strengthen security, stability and the implementation of reforms.

The framework agreement signed by Lebanon and Israel in Washington on 26 June provides for the restoration of Lebanese Army control over the south of the country as well as the disarmament of Hezbollah, beginning with what is referred to as a pilot zone, which will become an area for the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Nevertheless, Israel continues to launch attacks on Lebanon almost every day and maintains a military presence in the south of the country.