Lebanon President Joseph Aoun urges US pressure to end Israel conflict

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that while regional developments and Israeli elections have slowed negotiations to end the conflict with Israel, the peace process has not stopped. Aoun emphasized that there is “no third option between war and negotiations,” noting that ongoing contacts led by Lebanon’s Ambassador to Washington, Nada Mouawad, continue to move the process forward.

In communications with US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Aoun urged Washington to pressure Israel to adhere to the terms of a US-sponsored framework agreement signed on June 26. This agreement provides for a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in vacated areas. Aoun called for an end to Israeli attacks in southern towns, the cessation of land leveling and demolition activities, and the protection of farmers.

The stated goals of the Lebanese government include ending the conflict, ensuring Israeli withdrawal, rebuilding the south, and securing the return of displaced persons and prisoners to prevent the war from expanding across the entire country. Despite the framework, Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon have continued.