Lebanese President Aoun Signals Openness to Security Pact with Israel
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed readiness for a security agreement with Israel after IDF withdrawal, which could lead to peace, while affirming plans to disarm Hezbollah.
President Aoun Expresses Readiness for Security Pact with Israel
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated in an interview with AFP on Tuesday that Beirut seeks a security agreement with Israel following the withdrawal of IDF forces from southern Lebanon. Such a framework could pave the way for a future peace treaty, though Lebanon cannot transition to full normalization immediately.
First and foremost, to end the state of hostility and deploy the army at the border, this could be an opening for a peace agreement later, but we cannot jump straight into a peace treaty, Aoun said.
He emphasized that negotiations are the only viable path to avoid a devastating alternative. Aoun also reiterated Beirut's commitment to disarming Hezbollah, stressing that the decision is non-negotiable while aiming to prevent a bloody civil conflict.
Border Security and Regional Relations
Addressing regional dynamics, Aoun noted that relations with Iran must be built on mutual respect and non-interference. He also discussed the mandate of the UNIFIL force, which is set to expire on December 31, 2026, stressing that a security vacuum must be avoided in southern Lebanon.
Aoun departed for France to participate in a high-level meeting hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside King Abdullah II of Jordan, aimed at mobilizing international support for the Lebanese army.
