US President: We have concrete plans regarding support for the Lebanese Army

Washington, July 21 (KUNA) -- U.S. President Donald Trump affirmed on Tuesday the existence of "concrete plans" to support the Lebanese Army in consolidating its control over Lebanese areas agreed to be vacated by the Israeli occupation army. This statement came during a press briefing attended by President Trump and his Lebanese counterpart, Joseph Aoun, prior to their meeting at the White House.

Trump responded to a journalist’s question regarding whether Washington had plans to support the Lebanese Army in its efforts to secure Lebanese territories following the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation army, stating, "We already have very concrete plans in this regard, and there are other parties involved in providing assistance." He noted that the Lebanese Army "has also begun to achieve a much greater degree of self-sufficiency," adding, "We will address this issue. It is one of the topics we will discuss (with the Lebanese President)."

He emphasized that Lebanon "has suffered greatly over many decades (...) and we will help it. We will provide it with significant assistance." Trump added, "We have already met several times and held productive discussions, and we will work to resolve many problems. We have already resolved some of Lebanon’s problems," noting, "As you know, there is the (Hezbollah) issue, but we have taken steps that I believe the world is observing."

The U.S. President expressed his readiness "to talk" with Hezbollah "if the Lebanese President wishes," reiterating that he "speaks to everyone."

For his part, President Aoun described the framework agreement signed by Lebanon with the Israeli occupation, under U.S. sponsorship, in late June, as a "historic achievement." He clarified that the agreement "primarily aims to end the state of hostility" between Lebanon and the Israeli occupation "forever." He added, "The time has come for Lebanon and our region to enjoy stability and security," stressing that the "Lebanese Armed Forces (the Lebanese Army) are a fundamental pillar of security and stability."

He affirmed, "We need to support these forces, as they are responsible for maintaining the country’s security and stability. Without them, everything will collapse, and we do not want that to happen. I believe President Trump does not want it either." He recalled the consequences of the army’s collapse during the Lebanese Civil War, noting that "in 1975, the Lebanese Armed Forces were the first institution to collapse. As a result, we witnessed the emergence of numerous local militias, and the south became devoid of official authority. We do not want to see that happen again."

He affirmed that "all we ask for is continued support for the Lebanese Armed Forces," adding that "everyone recognizes that they are doing an excellent job and fulfilling their duties to the fullest." He expressed "complete confidence in these forces (the Lebanese Army) and their leadership."

The United States announced yesterday the launch of three pilot zones in southern Lebanon, where the Lebanese Army is expected to deploy concurrently with the withdrawal of the Israeli occupation army. This development follows negotiations held in Rome last week and aligns with the framework agreement signed in Washington on June 26.

President Aoun is currently visiting Washington, having arrived in the U.S. capital last Saturday. He met on Sunday with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. His visit also included meetings with several U.S. officials and members of the Senate. (End) R.S.R. / M.A.A.