Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said a deal signed with Israel on Friday was a first step toward fully restoring his country's sovereignty after the latest war between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
Framework Agreement Signed
In a statement released by his office, Aoun declared: “The framework agreement signed today is a first step” that will enable Lebanese “to return to their fully liberated lands, and to their certainly rebuilt homes... under the sovereignty of the Lebanese state that has no partner in its sovereignty over its land and people.”
He added: “We swear to continue to work until this is fully achieved. There will be no more occupation, prisoners, subordination or tutelage.”
Prime Minister's Remarks
Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said the agreement “aims to achieve Israel’s withdrawal from all Lebanese territory, restore state sovereignty over it” and see the return of displaced Lebanese. “I look forward to the blessed moment when Israel begins to withdraw — so that our dear people can return to their homes with safety and dignity — and to the launch” of reconstruction efforts, Salam added, according to a statement.
Context of the Deal
The deal comes after a devastating war between Israel and Hezbollah, which has left large parts of southern Lebanon destroyed and hundreds of thousands displaced. The framework agreement is seen as a critical step toward ending hostilities and rebuilding the region under Lebanese state authority.
According to observers, the agreement marks a significant shift in Lebanon's relationship with Israel, moving from a state of conflict to a negotiated framework. However, details of the agreement remain sparse, and it is unclear how the withdrawal will be implemented or what guarantees are in place.
