Lebanon president says determined to deploy army up to Israeli border

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun tells the US Central Command chief that he is committed to extending the state’s control through its military up to the border with Israel, where Iran-backed terror group Hezbollah maintains a strong presence.

He reaffirmed to Adm. Brad Cooper “the Lebanese state’s determination to extend its authority, through its armed forces, to the southern border,” the presidency says in a statement, adding that the pair discussed preparations for implementing a framework agreement between Lebanon, Israel and the US.

Israeli leaders have indicated they do not plan to withdraw from southern Lebanon before the Hezbollah terror group is dismantled.

“President Aoun thanked Admiral Cooper for the interest shown by US President Donald Trump toward Lebanon in achieving security and stability there, stressing the Lebanese state’s determination to extend its authority through its armed forces all the way to the international southern border,” the presidency adds,

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.