Ankara: Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun has called on US President Donald Trump to maintain his support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), describing the military as the backbone of Lebanon's security and stability. Speaking alongside Trump in the Oval Office, Aoun emphasized the importance of US political and military backing, highlighting the LAF's role as the most trusted institution in the country.
According to Anadolu Agency, Aoun stressed that without a strong military presence, Lebanon risks destabilization and potential collapse. He reiterated the LAF's significance in ensuring the nation's safety, noting that the institution enjoys the trust of the Lebanese public. Aoun's appeal comes amid recent developments in a US-brokered framework agreement aimed at reducing hostilities with Israel.
The newly signed framework agreement seeks to end the longstanding state of hostility between Lebanon and Israel. Aoun expressed confidence in Trump's vision for peace and stability in the region, aligning his own aspirations with those of the US president. As part of the agreement, the Lebanese military has begun deploying in parts of southern Lebanon, with Israeli forces preparing to withdraw from certain areas.
The US State Department announced the commencement of operations in the Lebanese villages of Froun, Srifa, and Zawtar Al-Gharbiya. The framework agreement outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal contingent upon the Lebanese army assuming full security responsibility in vacated areas and the disarmament of groups like Hezbollah. Despite the absence of a specific timetable, the agreement signifies a significant step towards achieving lasting peace in the region.
Israeli forces were reported to have opened fire near Lebanese army positions during the deployment in Zawtar al-Gharbiyeh, highlighting the tensions that still exist despite the ongoing efforts for peace. Official Lebanese figures indicate that Israeli attacks have resulted in significant casualties over the years, underscoring the urgency of a resolution to the conflict.