Beirut: Lebanese Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed Lebanon's appreciation for United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) and their tireless efforts during this challenging period. According to Kuwait News Agency, a statement by the media office of the Lebanese Prime Minister indicated that Mikati, during his meeting with the Force Commander of the UNIFIL, Major General Aroldo Lazaro, emphasized the importance of preserving the tasks and operational protocols assigned to the force. These tasks are executed in close cooperation with the Lebanese Army. Mikati condemned the Israeli assaults on UNIFIL and the threats directed at its personnel. He commended the determination of many countries to support the continuation of UNIFIL's work in south Lebanon, despite the challenges posed by escalating tensions. The Prime Minister highlighted that the expansion of Israeli aggression into Lebanese territories signals an outright rejection by the Israeli occupation of all efforts to cease fire and fu lly implement Resolution 1701. This expansion is seen as a clear indication of Israel's unwillingness to seek peaceful resolutions. Mikati further explained that the Israeli statements and the diplomatic signals received by Lebanon reflect a persistent obstinacy in rejecting proposed solutions, with an insistence on pursuing a path marked by violence and destruction. He stressed that this situation places the international community before its historical and moral responsibilities to halt Israeli occupation aggression. Since September 23, Israeli occupation forces have been launching airstrikes on various areas in Lebanon, resulting in significant casualties, extensive damage, and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. Despite recent attacks by Israeli forces, UNIFIL has confirmed its continued presence and commitment to maintaining peace in south Lebanon.
