Saudi Arabia Key in Regional Ceasefire Efforts, Lebanon Envoy Says

Lebanon's ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ali Karanouh, provided significant insights into the kingdom's crucial diplomatic efforts in securing a temporary ceasefire agreement, a development that offers a glimmer of hope amidst the region's escalating turmoil. In an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, Karanouh emphasized that Saudi Arabia's regional and international standing was instrumental in achieving this delicate accord.

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The Saudi crown prince affirmed the kingdom’s support for Lebanon in asserting its sovereignty and backing its efforts to preserve its resources and the safety and unity of its territory.

Karanouh underscored Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to Lebanon's stability and sovereignty. He relayed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's affirmation of the kingdom's support for Lebanon's efforts to safeguard its territory, resources, and national unity. This backing is particularly vital given Lebanon's precarious internal situation and its position unequivocally condemning Iranian attacks on Gulf states. The ambassador stressed Lebanon's reliance on its allies, especially Saudi Arabia, given its significant influence.

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Lebanon’s position “aims to liberate its land, preserve its rights, and achieve sustainable security and stability,” expressing hope that the negotiations represent the only hope for Lebanon, given the difficult situation and the war it was drawn into, which it does not want and its people do not want, while paying a heavy price.

The ambassador acknowledged the immense difficulties Lebanon has faced during the recent conflict, marked by casualties and widespread destruction. He framed the ceasefire agreement not merely as a pause in hostilities but as a significant achievement given the complex regional dynamics and Lebanon's own internal challenges. Karanouh articulated Lebanon's core objectives: liberating its land, preserving its rights, and achieving lasting security and stability.

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The kingdom maintains relations with all parties in Lebanon and calls for unity, security, stability, and the preservation of civil peace.

Furthermore, Karanouh addressed the ongoing diplomatic engagements between Lebanese politicians and Saudi officials. He noted that Saudi Arabia maintains relations with all Lebanese factions, advocating for unity, security, and civil peace, echoing its historical role in sponsoring agreements like the Taif Accord. This engagement, he suggested, has contributed to a de-escalation of rhetoric and a calming of internal tensions within Lebanon, fostering a more unifying discourse. The ambassador also highlighted serious efforts to mend relations with Arab and Gulf states, aiming to lift the ban on Lebanese exports and rebuild trust, signaling a potential pathway toward economic recovery and renewed regional cooperation.

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There is genuine seriousness today in addressing the issues that have affected Lebanon’s relations with Arab and Gulf states, with the aim of lifting the ban on Lebanese exports and rebuilding trust.