Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed on Saturday, during a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, that the Lebanese state would take responsibility for implementing the framework agreement reached with Israel under U.S. sponsorship, according to a statement issued by the Lebanese presidency.
The statement said that Aoun stressed that “the Lebanese state will assume its responsibilities in implementing the framework agreement.” He expressed hope that the United States would help prevent any violations of the agreement and ensure fulfillment of all commitments reached, particularly by pressuring Israel to withdraw from territories it occupies in southern Lebanon to facilitate the deployment of the Lebanese Army along the international border.
For his part, Trump affirmed that the United States would spare no effort in supporting Lebanon’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and the extension of state authority through its armed forces across all Lebanese territory. He also emphasized efforts to halt any threats to Lebanon’s stability and support the positions of the president and decisions of the government.
Trump further stated that the United States would contribute to supporting the Lebanese economy and legitimate security forces, enabling Lebanon to regain its leading role in the region and internationally.
He stressed that Washington would stand by Lebanon and the Lebanese people and work to provide all necessary support for implementing the agreement and restoring security and stability in the country.
On Friday, Israel and Lebanon signed a framework agreement under U.S. mediation following a fifth round of negotiations in Washington. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the agreement paves the way for “lasting peace” between the two countries.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, where the flags of the three countries were displayed side by side, Rubio said: “We are pleased to announce a framework agreement between the sovereign Government of Lebanon and, of course, the Government of Israel, mediated and supported by the United States.”
He added that the agreement creates a pathway toward “a framework for lasting peace and security.”
