Aoun: "Lebanon welcomes keeping European forces in the south to support the army after UNIFIL's withdrawal"

President Joseph Aoun, during his meeting with the Chief of Staff of the President of the French Republic, General Vincent Giraud:

Lebanon highly appreciates the efforts being made by French President Emmanuel Macron to help Lebanon confront the current crisis it is experiencing as a result of the continued Israeli attacks on its territory and the ongoing military escalation in the south.

The talks I always hold with the French president reflect a commitment to supporting Lebanon in ending the state of war and assisting the country in all fields.

Lebanon welcomes the desire of France and other European countries to keep forces in the south after the start of UNIFIL's withdrawal, in order to help the Lebanese Army maintain security and stability, provided that the framework under which these forces will operate is determined in consultation with the countries concerned and the United Nations.

We attach importance to the convening of the conference in support of the army and the Internal Security Forces, as well as the reconstruction conference.

I renew my condolences for the martyrdom of the French servicemen in UNIFIL. The judiciary has taken up this incident and continues its investigation in preparation for apprehending the perpetrators.