Lebanese President Calls for Dialogue to Disarm Hezbollah
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Synopsis
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized that disarming Hezbollah is crucial on both national and international fronts, advocating for dialogue as the solution. He announced plans for a National Security Strategy and called for US support in easing regional tensions.
Key Takeaways
- Disarming Hezbollah is a priority for Lebanon.
- Dialogue is essential for achieving national security.
- A National Security Strategy is forthcoming.
- The US is urged to help ease regional tensions.
- Reforms are necessary for Lebanon to gain international aid.
Beirut, April 7 (NationPress) Lebanese President Joseph Aoun reiterated on Monday that disarming Hezbollah is not only a national but also an international priority, emphasizing that the sole effective approach to reach this objective is through dialogue, as stated by the presidency.
"As I mentioned in my inauguration speech, there is no place for weapons or armed groups outside the state’s authority," Aoun expressed. "These matters must be addressed through communication and dialogue. Ultimately, Hezbollah is part of Lebanon."
He also announced that efforts will soon commence on formulating a National Security Strategy, which will serve as the groundwork for a National Defence Strategy.
"We are all united in our shared goal," he continued. "Differences in perspective are natural; that is the essence of democracy. What is crucial is that our objective is aligned."
Aoun's comments were made during a meeting with a delegation from the American Task Force on Lebanon, led by Edward Gabriel, as reported by Xinhua news agency. The delegation conveyed a distinct message from Washington underscoring two urgent priorities: the disarmament of Hezbollah and the execution of reforms essential for Lebanon to secure international financial support.
Gabriel commended the efforts of the Lebanese army and praised the President personally, while also acknowledging that "there is still much to accomplish." He mentioned that the quicker reforms are enacted, the sooner the US can provide substantial assistance.
Gabriel further revealed that the US Congress is working on a funding bill for Lebanon for the upcoming year.
Additionally, Aoun highlighted the necessity to relieve tensions in the south, stressing that Lebanon requires both time and space to resolve issues in a peaceful manner.
He urged the United States to exert pressure on Israel to withdraw from the five territories it continues to occupy, stating that their presence further complicates the situation. To enhance security, he indicated that the Lebanese government has recently sanctioned the recruitment of 4,500 soldiers.
Since November 27, 2024, a ceasefire agreement between Lebanon's Hezbollah and Israel has been upheld, concluding over a year of conflict spurred by the war in Gaza.
Despite this agreement, the Israeli military continues to conduct strikes in Lebanon, asserting that the operations target Hezbollah "threats".
