Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told a visiting UN Security Council delegation Friday that international support is critical to securing Lebanon’s borders and maintaining regional stability.
Aoun said cooperation with global partners is vital to safeguarding the country’s south, especially amid ongoing tensions with Israel. The delegation’s visit followed the first direct talks in decades between Lebanese and Israeli representatives earlier this week.
“The path of dialogue is final and serves Lebanon’s national interest,” Aoun said, adding that progress depends largely on Israel’s posture.
He said Lebanon’s negotiating strategy aims to halt Israeli hostilities, secure detainee releases, arrange Israeli withdrawal from occupied areas, and clarify disputed points along the Blue Line.
Aoun also welcomed the continued presence of foreign forces in southern Lebanon after the UN peacekeeping mandate ends in 2027, saying Lebanon is open to any country willing to assist the army.
A ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel has been in effect since Nov. 27, 2024, following clashes triggered by the war in Gaza. Despite the truce, Israeli forces have continued periodic strikes in Lebanon and maintain positions at five border points.