Lebanese Leader Appeals for Continued US Military Support and Israeli Withdrawal
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Synopsis
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged the United States to provide ongoing military support to the Lebanese army for national security tasks and to pressure Israel for a complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Congressman Darrell Issa assured support from Washington during their recent meeting.
Key Takeaways
- Joseph Aoun calls for US military support for Lebanon.
- Pressure on Israel for a complete withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
- Discussions included governance and economic recovery.
- Commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
- US military assistance likely to continue.
Beirut, Feb 22 (NationPress) The President of Lebanon, Joseph Aoun, has appealed to the United States to sustain its support for the Lebanese military by providing essential equipment and resources. This assistance is crucial for fulfilling the nation's security responsibilities, especially in southern Lebanon.
In a meeting with a delegation from the US Congress led by Congressman Darrell Issa in Beirut, Aoun also called on Washington to exert pressure on Israel to finalize its withdrawal from the five remaining areas it occupies in southern Lebanon, as stated in a release from the Lebanese presidency.
Issa extended his congratulations to Aoun on his election and reiterated the commitment of Washington to support Lebanon across various sectors. He noted that he would collaborate with the US administration and Congress to advocate for a complete Israeli withdrawal, according to the statement.
Following the meeting, Issa informed reporters that their discussions addressed both immediate and long-term challenges confronting Lebanon, such as enhancing governance, promoting economic recovery, and enforcing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, as reported by Xinhua.
Addressing Israel's ongoing presence in five locations in southern Lebanon, Issa recognized that while there had been considerable progress, further action is necessary. He mentioned persistent security challenges, such as the need to dismantle weapons stockpiles and underground tunnels, which require additional time. Nevertheless, he expressed optimism that complete adherence to Resolution 1701 would ultimately be reached.
He emphasized that the US and the United Nations will hold all involved parties accountable for fulfilling the resolution's requirements.
Issa also conveyed his belief that US military assistance for Lebanon would persist, including further military training and supplies from the US and regional allies like Jordan.
