Lebanese President Aoun emphasized the need for reforms to restore trust with Arab nations and manage economic mismanagement. During meetings with German officials, concerns about Israel’s occupation and its impact on security were discussed. Hezbollah criticized government statements about ceasefire agreements with Israel, highlighting internal disagreements on national strategy.
In a recent meeting in Beirut, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed Lebanon’s commitment to restore trust with Arab nations and the global community through essential reforms. He acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s support for expatriates and emphasized the need for quick cooperative solutions with stakeholders regarding the mismanagement of financial resources affecting depositors’ funds, which have been frozen since 2019.
Aoun stressed that revitalizing the economy and investment relies on establishing a dependable banking sector. He reiterated that this commitment forms part of the government’s core responsibilities and expressed eagerness to work alongside parliament to expedite necessary legislative action.
During a visit from German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, Aoun conveyed concerns that Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon territories undermines UN Resolution 1701 implementation. Baerbock was set to visit Damascus to resume operations at the German Embassy while discussions regarding Lebanon’s status continued.
President Aoun stated that the Lebanese army is actively securing areas vacated by Israeli forces and reiterated Israel’s dismissal of Lebanese proposals to withdraw from occupied territories. He highlighted the ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve these issues while addressing the imprisonment of several Lebanese nationals by Israel.
In related developments, Hezbollah responded critically to Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji’s statements regarding the ceasefire agreement with Israel. Rajji had outlined efforts to address the occupation while underscoring Lebanon’s stance against direct negotiations with Israel. Hezbollah MP Ibrahim Al-Moussawi deemed Rajji’s comments as damaging to national interests, arguing they offered Israel further justification for its actions.
Hezbollah leaders, including Sheikh Naim Qassem, criticized the foreign minister for his remarks, stressing that while Hezbollah has adhered to UN Resolution 1701, Israel continues to violate it. They urged the government to rectify what they termed “irresponsible statements.”
The article outlines Lebanon’s efforts to regain trust through reform, President Aoun’s concerns regarding Israel’s occupation, and Hezbollah’s critical reaction to government statements. Aoun stresses the necessity for quick solutions to financial mismanagement impacting depositors. Emphasis on Lebanon’s stance against direct negotiations with Israel and the ongoing security measures by the Lebanese army highlights the complex geopolitical landscape in the region. The tensions between governmental statements and Hezbollah position further complicate Lebanon’s national interests.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
