Speaking to local agricultural union leaders, Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun defends continuing direct talks with Israel as part of his duty to find a way to end the IDF operations in the country.
“The framework that Lebanon has set for the negotiations consists of the Israeli withdrawal, the ceasefire, the deployment of the army along the borders, the return of the displaced, and economic or financial assistance to Lebanon,” he tells the delegation, according to his office. “Anything else being discussed otherwise is incorrect.”
“It is my duty, and stemming from my position and responsibility, to do the impossible and whatever costs the least to stop the war against Lebanon and its people,” he says.
“We have experienced wars and where they have led Lebanon, so is there anyone who can bear their cost afterward?” says Aoun.
Last week, the US and Lebanese ambassadors to Washington wrapped up the third round of direct talks, after which the fragile ceasefire in Lebanon was extended for another 45 days.
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