Beirut: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has asserted that the extension of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate remains Lebanon’s primary choice, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an international presence in southern Lebanon in collaboration with the Lebanese army to bolster stability.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, President Aoun highlighted that UNIFIL’s presence is vital for allowing residents to remain in their villages and towns and for enhancing stability in partnership with the army. He expressed support for the parliamentary initiative and petition advocating for the extension of the international force’s mandate.

Aoun further stated that if UNIFIL’s mandate is not extended, it is crucial to adopt a framework ensuring the continued presence of international forces in the south. This framework should legally support their operations alongside and in coordination with the Lebanese army, enabling them to perform their designated tasks effectively.

He noted that Israel has been opposing UNIFIL’s presence and applying pressure for about a year, whereas Beirut insists on its continuation. Aoun stressed that the overarching objective is to ensure an ongoing international presence in the south, either by extending the current mandate or by deploying alternative international forces.