BEIRUT, Jan. 23 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Friday reiterated opposition to evacuating communities along the country's southern border, emphasizing the need to rebuild infrastructure, strengthen the economy, and create jobs to improve stability.
Speaking to a delegation from the union of municipalities of southern border towns, Aoun said the government was committed to protecting displaced residents and ensuring their safe return.
"Lebanon cannot recover, and its people cannot live in peace while the south remains wounded. We will do everything necessary to achieve that," he said.
Aoun also highlighted the role of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), noting that France, Italy, and Indonesia have pledged to remain after UNIFIL's mandate expires at year's end. He added that discussions are ongoing to halt Israeli airstrikes and protect civilians in the region.
The southern border of Lebanon has long been a flashpoint between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed militant group. A 2024 agreement helped maintain a fragile ceasefire, but Israel has conducted near-daily strikes in southern Lebanon, citing threats from Hezbollah. Lebanon's government and international observers have accused Israel of violating the truce. ■
