Cairo, Egypt – The Arab League welcomed the signing of the framework agreement between Lebanon and Israel, brokered by the United States,
considering it an important step towards enabling the Lebanese state to extend its sovereignty over all its territory.
It also viewed it as a continuation of the Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, contributing to enhanced security and stability.
Furthermore, it paves the way for the return of displaced persons and reconstruction efforts.
Arab support for restoring sovereignty
The Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Ahmed Aboul Gheit,
affirmed during a phone call with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam the League’s full support
for the Lebanese government’s efforts to consolidate state authority and enhance security and stability.
He also emphasized the League’s solidarity with Lebanon
and its readiness to continue supporting Lebanese institutions during this period.
Aboul Gheit explained that the framework agreement could serve
as a starting point for the complete and final Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
This could pave the way for the return of displaced persons to their homes,
the release of prisoners, and the mobilization of international support for the reconstruction of affected areas.
Warning against undermining the agreement
Conversely, the Secretary-General warned against any practices or policies that could undermine the agreement’s implementation,
noting that continued Israeli actions that contravene its stated commitments could jeopardize
the de-escalation process and jeopardize the prospects for lasting stability in Lebanon and the region.
He emphasized that the agreement success hinges on all parties adhering to its provisions.
This ensures its full implementation and prevents a return to a cycle of escalation.
A call for Lebanese unity
Aboul Gheit stressed the importance of maintaining the cohesion of the Lebanese domestic front,
calling on all political forces to rally around state institutions and the government.
He also urged them to act with a spirit of national responsibility to protect civil peace and strengthen stability.
He affirmed that the unity of the Lebanese people is the fundamental guarantee for the success of the next phase.
It is also essential to confront any attempts to incite strife
or undermine efforts to restore the state’s full authority and sovereignty over its territory.
