Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated Tuesday that progress has been made in negotiations with Israel and that the scope of Israeli strikes has already been reduced following the signing of a framework agreement, but reiterated that Lebanon will not allow any Israeli soldiers or presence on its soil, 'not even a centimeter.' The remarks were reported by N12.
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Tuesday acknowledged progress in negotiations with Israel and a reduction in Israeli strikes since the signing of a framework agreement, but reiterated his firm stance that no Israeli military presence would be tolerated on Lebanese soil, according to a report by N12.
This statement aligns with earlier remarks by Aoun reported by The Zioneer, in which he vowed not to allow "even one centimeter" of Israeli presence. The remarks come amid a broader diplomatic process involving the U.S., Iran, and regional mediators. Aoun has previously welcomed the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding and has held discussions with President Trump. The framework agreement between Israel and Lebanon has faced opposition from Hezbollah, which has criticized the deal as granting Israel a "power of attorney" to remain in Lebanon.
The Zioneer has reported extensively on the evolving diplomatic framework. In June, Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi claimed that Pakistan and Qatar mediation brought significant progress toward ending the Lebanon war, and U.S. Vice President Vance noted great progress on preserving the ceasefire.
What remains open: The practical implementation of the agreement and the timeline for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon remain points of contention. Aoun's statement underscores the Lebanese position but does not provide a specific timeline.
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