President Michel Aoun announces plans during meeting with US delegation to address arms presence in Palestinian camps in Beirut.
Lebanese President Michel Aoun announced on [date] that initiatives to disarm three Palestinian camps in Beirut will commence in mid-June, during a meeting with a US delegation led by Senator Angus King.
The discussion, which also included US Ambassador to Lebanon Lisa
Johnson, focused on addressing the issue of Palestinian weapons in these camps.
Aoun informed the delegation that Lebanese-Palestinian committees have been formed to oversee the disarmament process.
The President emphasized the need for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from occupied territories to allow the Lebanese Army to secure the southern borders effectively, a demand supported by the Lebanese populace, particularly those in the south.
During the meeting, Aoun reiterated Lebanon's commitment to United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 and noted that the Lebanese Army is actively engaged in the region south of the Litani River to enforce agreements reached in November.
He highlighted that despite these efforts, Israel continues to engage in aggressive actions against Lebanon and has yet to return Lebanese prisoners.
The President stressed the importance of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), noting its collaboration with the Lebanese Army and its role in providing social and humanitarian services to southern villages.
Aoun mentioned that Lebanon seeks an extension of UNIFIL's mandate for an additional year due to its critical role in the region.
Aoun discussed the recent positive dialogue with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, which resulted in an agreement on the exclusive right to bear arms within the Palestinian camps.
This decision paves the way for the implementation of disarmament in the camps starting in June.
Senator King affirmed ongoing US support for the Lebanese Army, particularly in modern equipment and resources, highlighting the efforts made by President Aoun to restore stability in Lebanon and commending the achievements of the Lebanese Army in maintaining peace in the region.