(VOVWORLD) - Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Saturday demanded that Israel fully withdraw from strategic positions in southern Lebanon and release its prisoners, calling these steps essential for ensuring stability along the border.
Aoun made the statement during a meeting in Beirut with visiting US Congressman Ronny Jackson. He reiterated that the Lebanese army, in coordination with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), is prepared to safeguard the border in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
The Lebanese President also voiced concern that Israel has not fully complied with the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah, which took effect on November 27, 2024, and continues to maintain forces in the border area.
Jackson reaffirmed the United States' commitment to mediating between Hezbollah and Israel, emphasizing Washington’s role in fostering peace in one of the most volatile regions of the Middle East.