Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated on Tuesday that Israel's ongoing occupation of southern Lebanese territory is obstructing the government's initiative to centralize all weapons under state control.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Aoun made these remarks during separate meetings in Beirut with Hamish Falconer, the UK assistant foreign secretary for Middle East and North Africa affairs, and Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans. He emphasized that Lebanon's stability is crucial for Europe, a sentiment echoed by the presidency's statement.
On August 5, the Lebanese Cabinet approved a plan to place all weapons, including those held by Hezbollah, under state authority, tasking the army with drafting and executing this plan by the end of 2025. However, Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem has consistently rejected this move, insisting that Israeli forces must first withdraw entirely from Lebanese territory.
The presidency noted that discussions between Aoun and the British official focused on the situation in southern Lebanon. Falconer commended the Lebanese army's efforts south of the Litani River and its coordination with the UN peacekeeping mission UNIFIL, reaffirming the UK's support for Lebanon's military. Aoun expressed gratitude to the British government for its assistance, particularly in constructing watchtowers along Lebanon's borders.
Aoun highlighted that the army has been fulfilling its duties since its deployment south of the Litani River following a ceasefire agreement in November 2024. However, he noted that deployment remains incomplete due to Israel's continued occupation of Lebanese land, which violates the agreement. He added that Israel's daily violations escalate tensions and threaten civilians' lives and property.
Tensions have been escalating in southern Lebanon, with the Israeli military conducting near-daily air raids inside Lebanese territory despite the ceasefire. Aoun stressed that negotiations are the sole avenue to end the Israeli occupation and its repercussions. He mentioned that the army is executing a comprehensive plan to restrict weapons to the state, submitting regular reports to the Cabinet, but Israel's continued occupation obstructs implementation. The military is also working to collect weapons from some Palestinian camps.
In his meeting with the Dutch defense minister, Aoun emphasized the importance of European support and urged European countries to pressure Israel to cease its attacks and engage with Lebanon's withdrawal efforts. Brekelmans reaffirmed the Netherlands' commitment to supporting the Lebanese army, praising its role in maintaining security, especially in the south. He also expressed readiness to encourage investment in Lebanon and invited Aoun to visit the Netherlands.
Earlier on Tuesday, Lebanese Defense Minister Michel Mansi met with Brekelmans at the ministry east of Beirut, where they signed a defense cooperation agreement, as reported by the Defense Ministry. Mansi expressed gratitude for the Netherlands' economic, humanitarian, and military support, highlighting the deep friendship between the two nations. Brekelmans assured that the Netherlands remains committed to aiding Lebanon's people, state, and army, recognizing the military's role in maintaining stability and collaborating with UN forces in the south.
Lebanon and the Netherlands continue to maintain close cooperation in various areas, especially in supporting the armed forces, development projects, and humanitarian assistance.