Aoun to Macron: Lebanon is committed to safeguarding UNIFIL’s safety and will not be lenient in pursuing those involved

President Joseph Aoun received a phone call at noon today from French President Emmanuel Macron, during which they discussed the latest developments, particularly the announcement of a ceasefire and the ongoing preparations to launch negotiations based on President Aoun’s initiative in this regard.

The President thanked his French counterpart for the support Lebanon has received from him and from France in all fields, as well as for the assistance his country has provided to help end the suffering of the Lebanese people.

During the call, President Aoun offered his condolences to President Macron over the killing of the French serviceman serving with UNIFIL and the wounding of a number of his comrades while they were on a mission in the southern town of Ghandoorieh, after being shot by armed men in the area.

President Aoun strongly condemned the targeting of the French force carrying out its duties on Lebanese territory in the service of peace and stability in its area of deployment in the south, praising the sacrifices of the international soldiers and wishing the wounded a speedy recovery.

Aoun stressed that Lebanon, which categorically rejects any attack on UNIFIL, is committed to safeguarding the safety of these forces and ensuring the appropriate conditions for them to carry out their duties. He said he had instructed the competent agencies to immediately investigate the incident and determine responsibility, stressing that Lebanon will not be lenient in pursuing those involved and bringing them to justice.