Lebanon Appeals to France for Ceasefire Enforcement as Israel Indicates Extended Military Presence
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Synopsis
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has requested France to encourage Israel to comply with the November 27, 2024 ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. During a call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Aoun highlighted the importance of adherence to maintain stability in southern Lebanon amidst ongoing violations and Israel's announcement of extended military presence.
Key Takeaways
- Lebanon seeks French intervention for ceasefire compliance.
- Ongoing Israeli violations threaten regional stability.
- Ceasefire established after 14 months of conflict.
- Israeli military presence in southern Lebanon extended.
- Lebanese army to assume border security responsibilities.
Beirut, Jan 26 (NationPress) Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged France to apply pressure on Israel to comply with the ceasefire agreement established with Hezbollah on November 27, 2024, as conveyed in a statement from Lebanon's Presidency.
In a telephone discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron, Aoun emphasized the pressing need for Israel to honor the agreement, underscoring its significance for maintaining stability in southern Lebanon.
Aoun condemned Israel's ongoing infractions, which include the devastation of border villages and large-scale land clearing, warning that such actions threaten the return of displaced individuals to their homes, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The statement indicated that the two leaders exchanged views on strategies to reduce tensions in the area. Macron assured Aoun of his commitment to engage in diplomatic initiatives to preserve the ceasefire and guarantee the complete implementation of the agreement.
The ceasefire, facilitated by the US and France, was put in place to conclude nearly 14 months of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. According to its stipulations, Israel is obligated to withdraw from Lebanese territory within 60 days. Subsequently, the Lebanese army would take over security duties along the border, deploying in the south to prevent the presence of militants and weaponry.
Despite these stipulations, violations continue, with Israeli forces conducting daily strikes in Lebanon, some resulting in casualties. The delicate agreement is now under further pressure as Israel has declared it will retain forces in southern Lebanon beyond the Sunday deadline for withdrawal.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that Israel would not meet the deadline outlined in the ceasefire agreement, citing a lack of adequate control by the Lebanese military in the area and Hezbollah's incomplete withdrawal north of the Litani River.
