Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun addressed the impact of Israeli forces on Lebanese territory and regional stability in recent meetings with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and leaders from Yemen and Iraq. The discussions touched upon humanitarian issues, the need for Syrian refugee returns, and fostering Arab unity and cooperation amidst regional challenges.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun has expressed concern regarding the ongoing presence of Israeli forces on Lebanese territory. He noted that this situation obstructs both stability and the enforcement of U.N. Resolution 1701, alongside the ceasefire agreements established in late November 2024 and February 2025. These statements were made during a meeting with U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and a U.N. delegation at the Tulip Hotel in Cairo, attended by Lebanon’s Foreign Minister Youssef Raji.
The discussions focused on various regional developments, the operations of U.N. organizations in Lebanon, and challenges pertaining to the Palestinian cause. President Aoun took the opportunity to express gratitude to Guterres for the support rendered by the U.N., particularly commending UNIFIL forces for their significant contributions in southern Lebanon despite facing operational hurdles.
In addressing the regional landscape, Guterres expressed astonishment at the continued Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon, indicating that such a circumstance does not bolster regional stability. Additionally, President Aoun highlighted the matter of Syrian refugees, advocating for their return to Syria in light of changing conditions.
After the meeting, Guterres reaffirmed his solidarity with the Lebanese populace, commending the establishment of the new government and its parliamentary support, along with Lebanon’s commitment to undertake vital reform measures aimed at revitalizing its economy and society. He also underscored the necessity of upholding Lebanon’s territorial integrity, stipulating that no foreign forces should remain in Lebanon aside from UNIFIL.
In a separate meeting, President Aoun was visited by Rashad Mohammed Al-Alimi, head of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, who extended congratulations on Aoun’s election. The discussion centered on understanding bilateral relations and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, calling for cohesive Arab action to alleviate the suffering of the Yemeni people.
President Aoun voiced hope for Yemen’s imminent peace and stability, stressing the importance of Arab unity during these pivotal times. Both leaders agreed to keep open channels of communication moving forward. In another meeting, Aoun welcomed Iraq’s President Abdul Latif Rashid who also congratulated him and reaffirmed Iraq’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Lebanon across multiple sectors.
The two presidents discussed regional issues, notably the situations in Syria and Palestine, and contemplated expectations from the forthcoming Arab League summit. Aoun expressed gratitude to Iraq for its steadfast support regarding political, economic, and humanitarian matters, with a particular emphasis on ongoing cooperation in oil.
Furthermore, President Aoun received a delegation from the Arab League, including Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit, who updated him on the discussions leading to the summit. This meeting allowed for an exchange of views on the draft statement agreed upon prior to the summit’s opening session, attended by Lebanon’s officials.
In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s engagements in Cairo addressed critical regional matters, including Israeli military presence and support for the Palestinian cause. He emphasized the importance of Syrian refugee returns and Arab unity during discussions with various leaders. The meetings showcased Lebanon’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international relations and address humanitarian crises while seeking stability and cooperation within the region.
Original Source: www.lbcgroup.tv
