Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged the United States and the international community to intensify pressure on Israel to stop attacks in southern Lebanon and withdraw from occupied territories, allowing the Lebanese army to secure the country’s southern border.
Aoun made the appeal on Wednesday during talks with five French lawmakers at the presidential palace in Baabda.
He accused Israeli forces of continuing to bomb and demolish villages and towns in southern Lebanon in violation of a framework agreement reached under U.S. auspices.
In a statement issued by the Lebanese presidency, Aoun said international pressure was needed to end the attacks, secure the withdrawal of Israeli troops, facilitate the return of detainees, rebuild damaged communities and enable displaced residents to return home.
He reiterated Lebanon’s support for the continued presence of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in the south.
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He also proposed the possibility of deploying European forces as the basis for a wider international force to help preserve security and stability in the border region.
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Aoun noted that the Lebanese government was working with humanitarian organisations, UNIFIL and the Lebanese army to deliver food, healthcare and educational support to residents who remain in border communities despite the Israeli presence.
The French delegation said its members had visited Marjeyoun and nearby villages, where they met local residents and students to understand the challenges facing communities affected by the conflict.
The situation in southern Lebanon continues to raise concerns over civilian safety, infrastructure damage and the return of displaced families, highlighting the need for sustained diplomatic efforts and humanitarian assistance.
Aoun also thanked French President Emmanuel Macron for France’s continued support and reaffirmed Lebanon’s intention to strengthen its strategic partnership with the European Union.
The Lebanese government maintains that an end to the attacks and the withdrawal of Israeli forces are essential steps towards restoring stability and extending state authority across the southern border region.
Xinhua
