Lebanese president tells Trump Lebanon aims to end hostilities with Israel 'forever'

What happened

Al Jazeera Lebanon reports that Lebanese President Joseph Aoun told US President Donald Trump that Lebanon’s “ultimate objective” is to end hostilities with Israel “forever.” This message follows a US-backed framework agreement aiming at de-escalation between the two countries.

President Aoun is currently in Washington seeking US support for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon, a region marked by longstanding disputes and conflict including Hezbollah presence. The Lebanese government frames this withdrawal as essential to achieving lasting peace.

While the reported statement highlights Lebanon’s desire for a permanent cessation of conflict with Israel, the source does not confirm any new steps or guarantees by Israel regarding withdrawal or cessation of hostilities. The context underscores the ongoing role of US diplomacy in trying to ease tensions.

Known from the source

• Lebanese President Joseph Aoun made a statement to US President Donald Trump about Lebanon’s goal to end hostilities with Israel 'forever'.
• This statement was made in the context of a US-backed framework agreement.
• Aoun is in Washington seeking US support for Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon.

What remains unclear

Efforts to secure peace between Lebanon and Israel have broader implications for security in southern Lebanon, the status and role of UNIFIL peacekeepers, and civilian populations affected by intermittent fighting and displacement.

What remains unclear: Verification of the details and status of the US-backed framework agreement mentioned. Confirmation of any official Israeli response or stance on withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Clarification on any involvement or positions of Hezbollah or UNIFIL related to this framework or withdrawal. Checking for any casualty figures, ceasefire claims, or reported strikes related to this diplomatic development, if available before release.

Evidence note

Outside Brief has kept this brief source-led and attributed. Claims should be read alongside the original source linked below.

Original source: Al Jazeera Lebanon. Open the source.