Daijiworld Media Network – Beirut

Beirut, Jan 26 (IANS): Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to pressure Israel into fully adhering to the ceasefire agreement reached with Hezbollah on November 27, 2024, according to a statement from Lebanon's Presidency.

In a phone conversation with Macron, Aoun emphasized the need for Israel to honor the deal, which is crucial to maintaining peace and stability in southern Lebanon. The President condemned Israel’s repeated violations, including the destruction of border villages and land bulldozing, which he said were obstructing displaced residents from returning to their homes.

The two leaders deliberated on measures to de-escalate tensions, with Macron assuring Aoun of France’s active diplomatic efforts to uphold the fragile truce and ensure its complete implementation.

The US and France-brokered ceasefire brought an end to a 14-month-long conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. As per the agreement, Israel was to withdraw from Lebanese territory within 60 days, allowing the Lebanese Army to take over security responsibilities along the border. The army was also tasked with preventing the presence of militants and weapons in the region.

However, the agreement faces significant challenges, with Israeli forces continuing daily strikes in Lebanon, some of which have resulted in casualties. Tensions have further escalated after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel would not meet the deadline for withdrawal, citing insufficient control by the Lebanese Army in the south and Hezbollah’s incomplete withdrawal north of the Litani River.

Lebanon's Presidency has stressed that Israel's non-compliance with the ceasefire terms could jeopardize regional stability. Meanwhile, Macron reiterated France’s commitment to ensuring the deal is upheld and tensions are defused.