Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has confirmed Lebanon's commitment to enforcing a cabinet decision that restricts arms possession solely to the state. This announcement was made on Thursday following a meeting with Arab League Assistant Secretary General Ambassador Hosam Zaki, as per a statement released by the presidency.
According to Kuwait News Agency, President Aoun emphasized that all allied and friendly nations have been informed of this decision, highlighting Lebanon's dedication to implementing it in a way that serves the interests of all Lebanese citizens. Furthermore, Aoun communicated to US Envoy Tom Barrack the necessity for Israel to address issues such as withdrawing from occupied southern regions, releasing prisoners, and implementing UN Resolution 1701. These steps are deemed essential for establishing state sovereignty up to Lebanon's internationally recognized borders.
The Arab League's support is deemed vital at this time, especially considering the international community's understanding and backing of Lebanon's position, Aoun stated. Ambassador Zaki, conveying greetings from Arab League Secretary General Ahmad Abul-Gheit, affirmed the organization's continued monitoring of the situation in Lebanon. He reiterated the Arab League's support for the plan to re-establish state authority over all national territories, limiting arms possession to the state.
Zaki further expressed the Arab League's strong support for exerting pressure on Israeli forces to withdraw from southern Lebanon and to refrain from actions that could compromise Lebanese sovereignty. He also expressed hope that the issue of arms would be addressed with caution and wisdom.