Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told a UN Security Council delegation that Lebanon does not want war with Israel. He stressed that the Lebanese people have suffered enough and “there will be no going back.” Aoun called for international support for the Lebanese army’s plan to disarm non-state groups.
The president said the army aims to complete the first phase of its plan by year-end. “The Lebanese army will play its full role… The international community must support and assist it,” Aoun said. He emphasized that the country is committed to diplomacy despite ongoing tensions with Israel.
Read more: Israel strikes South Lebanon despite ceasefire talks
Hezbollah chief Naim Qassem backed Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts but criticized including civilian representatives in talks with Israel. He called it a “misstep” and argued it would not change Israel’s aggression. Hezbollah has refused to disarm but has not yet retaliated against recent Israeli strikes.
The ceasefire, agreed in November 2024, has been repeatedly violated. Israel continues strikes in southern Lebanon and maintains troops in five strategic areas. UN peacekeepers confirmed attacks on their vehicles and called Israeli strikes “clear violations” of Security Council Resolution 1701.
Read more: Historic Lebanon–Israel meeting signals cautious peace
Aoun urged the UN delegation to pressure Israel to fully implement the ceasefire and withdraw troops. Lebanon and Israel’s civilian representatives will meet again on December 19 to continue talks. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri stressed that stability depends on Israel halting violations and respecting UN resolutions.