Aoun: This Is Our Option If UNIFIL Is Not Extended

President of the Republic Joseph Aoun welcomed the parliamentary initiative and petition calling for the extension of the international forces in the south, stating that "the presence of UNIFIL in the south is important for several reasons," noting that "it helps stabilize residents in their villages and towns and enhances security through cooperation and coordination with the Lebanese Army."

President Aoun stated that "our first option is to extend UNIFIL’s mandate, and if it is not extended, our second option is to adopt a format ensuring the continued presence of international forces in the south within the required legal framework, with these forces alongside the Lebanese Army and coordinated with it, supporting stability and the fulfillment of their assigned missions."

He emphasized that "Israel opposes the presence of UNIFIL and has been pressuring in this direction for nearly a year, while we are demanding its continuation," adding that "the core idea is to create a breakthrough ensuring the continued international presence in the south, either through extending UNIFIL’s mandate or through alternative international forces, which would maintain stability and strengthen the role of the state and the Lebanese Army."