Paris: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized the importance of international support for Lebanon’s military and security institutions during a meeting at the Invalides Palace in Paris, France. The meeting, attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, Jordanian King Abdullah II, and representatives from the United States, Arab countries, and European nations, was held to prepare for an international conference aimed at supporting the Lebanese army and internal security forces as part of the “Aqaba Initiative.”
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Lebanese Presidency released a statement quoting Aoun, who asserted that Lebanon has begun to translate its commitment to state-building into a concrete reality. He highlighted that Lebanon’s dedication to developing a strong state and effective institutions is now receiving widespread regional and international support. Aoun urged international partners to seize this opportunity, emphasizing that the aim is not merely crisis management but rather setting Lebanon on a course towards sustainable governance.
Aoun reiterated that the Lebanese army is a crucial pillar in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, underlining that the choice to build a strong state is a Lebanese initiative, not an external imposition. He explained the army’s expanding role, particularly in southern Lebanon, where it is tasked with enhancing state presence, maintaining stability, and combating smuggling, terrorism, and organized crime.
He pointed out the need for a smooth transition in the role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) to prevent a security vacuum. Despite the ongoing economic crisis, Aoun praised the military and security forces for maintaining their cohesion and discipline and called for international support to enhance their capabilities beyond mere resilience.
Aoun stressed that while Lebanon holds the primary responsibility for supporting its institutions, international backing is essential. He called for a clear and continuous international partnership to enable these institutions to plan and build their capabilities effectively.
Discussing the situation in southern Lebanon, Aoun remarked that the “tripartite framework” with Israel, facilitated by the US with Arab and European support, aims to end hostilities and foster security and stability. He insisted that agreements require full implementation to succeed, urging adherence to commitments as a means to achieve lasting peace.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed Aoun’s sentiments, underscoring the importance of extending Lebanese state authority across all territories. Macron stated his intention to engage with US President Donald Trump and other American leaders to ensure Israel’s compliance with its commitments, including a gradual withdrawal from occupied territories. He emphasized the necessity of empowering the Lebanese army to assume a leadership role, noting that international forces are meant to support, not replace, the Lebanese military.
King Abdullah II of Jordan also highlighted the army’s crucial role in Lebanon’s security and stability, advocating for enhanced resources to enable the army to regain control over southern territories. He stressed the importance of the Lebanese state holding a monopoly on the use of force.
The meeting, attended by international representatives and Lebanese military leaders, focused on identifying support strategies for the Lebanese army and Internal Security Forces. Participants reviewed reports and discussed practical ideas to bolster Lebanon’s security infrastructure.