Qatar’s Prime Minister announced that Qatar would assist Lebanon’s reconstruction post-conflict, contingent on a new government formation. He expressed hope for a strategic partnership with Lebanon after successful government negotiations. Meanwhile, efforts continue to ensure adherence to ceasefire agreements between Israel and Hezbollah, amidst ongoing humanitarian support from Qatar.
During a visit to Beirut, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani announced that Qatar is prepared to assist Lebanon in its reconstruction efforts following the recent conflict, contingent upon the establishment of a new government. He emphasized Qatar’s commitment to economic aid and rebuilding initiatives, reflecting past involvement after the 2006 Hezbollah-Israel war.
Expressing optimism, Al-Thani stated his eagerness to discuss support after the Lebanese government is formed, highlighting the potential for a “strategic partnership”. His remarks came after a meeting with Lebanon’s new President, Joseph Aoun, amid ongoing efforts to accommodate the government formation process, which remains stalled.
Qatar played a significant role alongside several nations, including the United States, France, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, in advocating for the election of a new president, effectively ending a two-year political impasse in Lebanon. This persistent crisis has left Lebanon seeking assistance from Gulf nations for reconstruction efforts.
The ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, established on November 27, has been fragile, following a prolonged period of hostility. Al-Thani urged Israeli forces to comply with the withdrawal agreements from southern Lebanon and called for adherence to a U.N. Security Council resolution, which mandates the presence of U.N. peacekeepers and the Lebanese army in the region instead of other militia forces.
Additionally, the Prime Minister reinforced Qatar’s ongoing commitment to provide humanitarian support and military aid to Lebanon as it grapples with economic challenges. While Washington remains the primary financial supporter of the Lebanese army, Qatar has contributed through various forms of assistance, both monetary and in-kind.
The article discusses the recent statements made by Qatar’s Prime Minister regarding support for Lebanon’s post-conflict reconstruction efforts. The background is rooted in the ongoing political instability in Lebanon and the aftermath of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, which necessitate external assistance for recovery and stability. Qatar’s historical involvement, particularly following the 2006 war, underlies its current pledge of support contingent upon the formation of a new Lebanese government and the establishment of a strategic partnership. The political landscape in Lebanon has been challenging, with a two-year deadlock preceding the recent elections that saw the appointment of President Joseph Aoun. This ongoing vacuum has prompted Gulf nations to engage more actively in Lebanese affairs, aiming for stability and improved governance in the region. The ceasefire with Israel has added another layer of complexity as it requires compliance from all parties involved to ensure peace and security in Southern Lebanon.
In conclusion, Qatar’s Prime Minister reaffirmed his country’s readiness to assist Lebanon in its reconstruction efforts following the recent escalations linked to Hezbollah and Israel, contingent upon the formation of a new government. His visit emphasizes the strategic support that Qatar intends to provide, paralleling its historical involvement in Lebanese recovery efforts after previous conflicts. This commitment is critical as Lebanon seeks to stabilize its government and address the economic hardships it faces.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
