US Diplomat Reaffirms February 18 Deadline for Israeli Forces to Exit Southern Lebanon
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Synopsis
On February 7, US Deputy Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus reiterated the US's commitment to the February 18 deadline for Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon. During a meeting with President Joseph Aoun, she emphasized the necessity of reform in the new government and the exclusion of Hezbollah.
Key Takeaways
- US reaffirms February 18 deadline for Israeli withdrawal.
- Lebanese government must focus on reform and exclude Hezbollah.
- Lebanese army prepared for deployment post-Israeli withdrawal.
- Call for end to Israeli attacks and reconstruction of damaged areas.
- Consultations for new government nearing completion.
Beirut, Feb 7 (NationPress) US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East Morgan Ortagus reiterated on Friday the United States' commitment to the February 18 deadline for Israeli forces to finalize their exit from southern Lebanon.
During her discussion with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Beirut, Ortagus stressed that the deadline, part of ongoing negotiations with both the Lebanese and Israeli administrations, will ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and the redeployment of Lebanese troops in southern Lebanon.
She also insisted that the upcoming Lebanese government must prioritize reform and ensure that Hezbollah is excluded from the process.
In response, Aoun underscored the significance of the February 18 deadline for the full Israeli withdrawal, as well as the execution of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the agreements established in November 2024.
He advocated for an end to Israeli assaults, the release of Lebanese detainees, and the reconstruction of areas impacted by Israeli aggression, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Aoun also confirmed that the Lebanese army is ready to be deployed to regions from which Israeli forces will withdraw, emphasizing the continued collaboration with international peacekeeping forces to stabilize the area.
Regarding Lebanon's political landscape, Aoun mentioned that discussions to form a new government are nearing completion, with hopes that the cabinet will meet the Lebanese people's aspirations for reform and stability.
