French President Emmanuel Macron has urged for an expedited Israeli troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon during his visit to Beirut. He emphasized the need for the Lebanese military to hold a monopoly over weapons as per a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. Macron’s visit also hints at future international support for Lebanon’s reconstruction.
French President Emmanuel Macron has urged Israel to expedite its troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon ahead of the deadline dictated by a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. During his visit to Beirut, Macron emphasized the necessity for a complete Israeli withdrawal and advocated for the Lebanese military to gain a monopoly on weapons in the region. Macron’s visit marks him as the first foreign leader to meet Lebanon’s new president, Joseph Aoun, since his election to office.
Macron stated, “We need a total withdrawal of the Israeli army,” reinforcing the need for a stronger Lebanese military presence in the south alongside UN peacekeepers. The ceasefire, brokered by the United States and France, mandates that Israeli forces withdraw within 60 days and Hezbollah must remove its fighters and arms in the area. As the deadline approaches, Macron has called for swift adherence to these agreements.
In his address, Macron reiterated the significance of enhancing the Lebanese armed forces, saying, “The Lebanese army must hold total monopoly of any weapons” in southern Lebanon. Additionally, he announced plans for an international conference in Paris to gather support for Lebanon’s reconstruction. The French President’s remarks indicate a fresh phase for Lebanon following its recent leadership changes and the impact of the ceasefire on regional stability.
The article discusses President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Beirut, where he calls for the acceleration of Israel’s troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon. His visit is significant as he is the first foreign leader to engage with Lebanon’s new president, Joseph Aoun. This follows a ceasefire agreement that has altered the dynamic between Israel and Hezbollah, requiring Lebanon’s military to establish control over its southern territory. The leadership change in Lebanon presents an opportunity for international support and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of conflict.
In summary, President Macron’s visit to Beirut signifies a crucial moment in Lebanese politics and regional security. His emphasis on the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and the empowerment of the Lebanese military demonstrates a commitment to stabilizing the region. Furthermore, the anticipation of an international reconstruction conference highlights the need for global support as Lebanon seeks to rebuild and reform under new leadership.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com