Lebanon is intensifying its diplomatic efforts with the United States, seeking Washington’s assistance in exerting pressure on Israel to withdraw its forces from Lebanese territory.The call was made by the President of the Republic, General Joseph aoun, during a meeting on Saturday.

At the Baabda Palace, President Aoun met with admiral Brad Cooper, commander of Centcom, along with the American ambassador, Lisa johnson, and General Michael lenny, president of the monitoring commission for the cessation of hostilities. During the meeting, Joseph Aoun emphasized the necessity of fully implementing the ceasefire agreement established last November.

According to the President, “We call on the United states to put pressure on Israel to retire from the land he still occupies in the South, so that the Lebanese army can complete its deployment to the international border.” He further stated that activating the supervision mechanism was “necessary to put an end to Israeli violations, ensure the withdrawal of occupied hills and territories and guarantee the return of prisoners”, referencing UN Security Council resolution 1701.

President aoun highlighted the progress of the Lebanese army in deploying throughout the south, noting that they are present in over 85% of the area south of the Litani River, despite challenging conditions. He cautioned that continued israeli actions “obstructs the army’s ability to complete its deployment”, and mentioned the loss of twelve soldiers and officers due to mines and ammunition.

Addressing American aid, the president emphasized that “continuous support of the United States, in the form of equipment, vehicles and training, is vital to allow the army to accomplish its missions through the country: maintenance of security, fight against smuggling and terrorism, and control of the Lebano-Syrian border”.

US Commits to Continued Support for Lebanese Army

“The stability of Lebanon is a key factor in the region’s stability.”

Admiral Cooper commended “the remarkable work of the Lebanese army in the south and across the country”, and assured that the united States “will continue to provide assistance in training and equipment, in coordination with the administration and the congress”.

Admiral cooper also indicated that the mechanism Commission would convene on Sunday “to discuss the situation in the South and work to consolidate stability through the continuation of the implementation of the November Agreement”.

President Aoun concluded by underscoring Lebanon’s crucial role in maintaining regional equilibrium, telling Admiral Cooper, “The stability of Lebanon is a key factor in the region’s stability.”