On the 17th President Aoun welcomed parliament’s call to extend UNIFIL’s mandate in southern Lebanon, saying the force is essential for civilian security, close coordination with the Lebanese army and regional stability. He said extending the mandate is the preferred option; if that cannot be achieved, Lebanon seeks a framework to ensure international forces operate alongside and coordinate with the Lebanese army to fulfill their duties. Aoun noted Israel has opposed UNIFIL and has for nearly a

On the 17th President Aoun welcomed parliament’s call to extend UNIFIL’s mandate in southern Lebanon, saying the force is essential for civilian security, close coordination with the Lebanese army and regional stability. He said extending the mandate is the preferred option; if that cannot be achieved, Lebanon seeks a framework to ensure international forces operate alongside and coordinate with the Lebanese army to fulfill their duties. Aoun noted Israel has opposed UNIFIL and has for nearly a year urged its withdrawal, while Lebanon presses for continued deployment.