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Lebanese Prime Minister Calls for Strengthening Army's Role in the South
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Mikati's emphasis on restricting weapons to the Lebanese Army reflects his government's desire to regain control of military decisions in the South
Violent Israeli attacks on southern Lebanese territories continue since the early dawn hours, amid diplomatic efforts to contain the escalation.
Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati, during his participation in the Paris conference supporting Lebanon today Monday, stated that there are intensive international efforts to achieve a ceasefire, emphasizing that the decision for de-escalation lies with Israel.
He stressed the necessity of ensuring civilian protection before beginning humanitarian aid delivery, considering that ceasefire represents the first priority before implementing UN Resolution 1701.
Mikati presented his vision for the solution, emphasizing the necessity of restricting weapons to the Lebanese military institution according to the constitution, stressing the importance of deploying the Lebanese Army in areas south of the Litani River and activating its role alongside UNIFIL forces.
Israel has escalated its military operations in Lebanon since last September, targeting multiple areas in the South, Eastern Bekaa, and the southern suburbs of the capital.
Israeli forces began what they called a limited ground operation in southern border villages at the beginning of this month, vowing to continue targeting the Iranian-backed Hezbollah.
The Israeli government aims to create a security zone along the border strip and force Hezbollah to withdraw beyond the Litani River.
The ongoing military escalation has resulted in more than 1,500 civilian casualties and the displacement of about 1.2 million people from the southern suburbs and southern regions.
Levant-Agencies
