Ceasefire Talks: A Step Towards Peace and Economic Cooperation

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized ceasefire talks with Israel focus on halting Israeli hostilities in Lebanon. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Israeli strikes on Hezbollah continue. Talks aim to stop hostilities, secure captives' return, and resolve Blue Line disputes. Lebanon seeks UN support post-UNIFIL withdrawal in 2026.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stressed on Friday that ongoing ceasefire discussions with Israel center on curbing Israeli hostilities in Lebanese areas. This statement follows Israel's declaration of interest in establishing economic cooperation.

Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement last year, Israeli attacks on Lebanon's Hezbollah militants persist. Recently, civilian envoys from Lebanon and Israel joined the military committee that oversees the ceasefire, expanding the range of their dialogue.

Aoun highlighted that these negotiations intend to cease Israeli aggressive actions, secure return of captives, plan the withdrawal from occupied regions, and address disputes along the Blue Line. He also informed a visiting U.N. Security Council team that Lebanon welcomes international military support after UNIFIL's planned withdrawal in 2026.

(With inputs from agencies.)