Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized the importance of reforms to regain trust with foreign nations during a meeting with business leaders in Saudi Arabia. He called for collaboration to address the financial crisis while discussing the challenges posed by Israel’s occupation of Lebanese territory. The response from Hezbollah officials to Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji’s comments demonstrated the tensions within Lebanon’s political landscape as diplomatic efforts continue.
In a significant statement, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun underscored the nation’s commitment to restoring trust with Arab and global stakeholders through necessary reforms. Speaking to Lebanese business leaders in Saudi Arabia, he expressed gratitude to the Kingdom for its support toward expatriates and their families. Aoun emphasized the urgency of addressing the financial crisis, calling for collaboration among economic entities to resolve issues stemming from the prolonged freeze on depositors’ funds in Lebanese banks since 2019.
Aoun stated that a reliable banking sector is crucial for revitalizing the economy and encouraging investment. He reiterated the government’s pledge to expedite the legislative process to facilitate this, emphasizing these commitments made during his oath speech. Furthermore, Aoun discussed the challenges posed by Israel’s occupation of southern Lebanon to the implementation of UN Resolution 1701 during a meeting with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.
The Lebanese president mentioned that Israeli forces continue to occupy key areas and are holding Lebanese prisoners, exacerbating the existing tensions. Aoun confirmed that the Lebanese military is actively working to maintain security in areas previously vacated by Israeli troops. He lamented Israel’s rejection of proposals for international troops to replace them, highlighting ongoing diplomatic efforts to negotiate a resolution.
In response to recent statements by Foreign Minister Youssef Rajji regarding Hezbollah and the ceasefire agreement with Israel, the party expressed its discontent. Rajji referenced diplomatic efforts for ending Israeli occupation and outlined the conditions for peace, including adherence to UN Resolution 1701. However, he maintained that Lebanon would not engage in direct negotiations with Israel.
Hezbollah officials, including MP Ibrahim Al-Moussawi and Secretary-General Sheikh Naim Qassem, countered Rajji’s assertions, emphasizing that his comments could undermine national interests and unwarrantedly justify Israeli aggression. Al-Moussawi urged the government to rectify Rajji’s statements, asserting Hezbollah’s commitment to the agreements made with the Lebanese government and the need for condemnation of Israeli violations.
President Joseph Aoun’s remarks highlight Lebanon’s commitment to reform and economic recovery while addressing critical issues surrounding Israeli occupation and regional diplomacy. The contrasting responses from Hezbollah leaders to the foreign minister’s statements further illustrate the complexities and tensions within Lebanese political discourse as Lebanon seeks to navigate its relationship with Israel and uphold national interests. The ongoing efforts to restore trust and security remain paramount as Lebanon grapples with significant internal and external challenges.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
