Lebanese president asks U.S. to back Israeli withdrawal for truce

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, calling for unified U.S. and Lebanese support for a ceasefire agreement with Israel. The core of the proposed agreement hinges on an initial Israeli military withdrawal from a designated pilot zone in southern Lebanon. Following this withdrawal, the Lebanese Army would assume control of the area, with specific conditions regarding the absence of Hezbollah presence.

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the need for the Lebanese position to coincide with the American one in the application of the Trilateral Framework Agreement, mediated by the U.S., through the realization of the first Israeli withdrawal from the first pilot zone.

During the discussions, Aoun emphasized the need for the U.S. to reinforce its support for the Lebanese Armed Forces. He also sought American investment in key Lebanese economic sectors, including energy, telecommunications, and transportation, aiming to bolster the country's financial stability.

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reinforce American support for the Lebanese Army and take the necessary measures to consecrate the interest of the United States in Lebanon in the economic and investment fields in various sectors, especially in energy, telecommunications, and transport.

In response, the U.S. State Department issued a statement commending President Aoun's leadership and Lebanon's commitment to regaining sovereignty, disarming Hezbollah, and dismantling its infrastructure. Secretary Rubio reaffirmed U.S. dedication to the successful implementation of the Trilateral Framework Agreement. The statement also highlighted U.S. support for Lebanon's efforts toward peace, economic recovery, and a better future for its people.

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praised the courage of the Government of Lebanon, under the leadership of President Aoun, for its firm commitment to reclaiming the country's sovereignty, disarming Hezbollah, dismantling its terrorist infrastructure, and moving toward peace.

The ongoing negotiations, which have included multiple rounds in Washington and Rome, aim to end the conflict that began on March 2 between Hezbollah and Israel. The framework agreement for the Israeli withdrawal was signed on June 26 in Washington.

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The Secretary reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the Trilateral Framework and supporting the efforts of the Government of Lebanon to achieve peace, economic recovery, and a better future for the Lebanese people.