(Photo: Anadolu)
BEIRUT – Israeli forces continued attacks across southern Lebanon on Thursday, while Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said ongoing strikes and Israel’s continued presence in parts of the south were hampering implementation of a US-mediated security framework.
Lebanon’s National News Agency reported Israeli airstrikes, artillery fire, demolitions and other military activity in several southern districts, including Tyre, Nabatieh, Marjayoun and Bint Jbeil. Israeli drones were also reported over Beirut and other areas.
The attacks came as Aoun joined talks in Paris focused on strengthening the Lebanese Armed Forces and planning for the security situation in southern Lebanon. French, Lebanese and Jordanian leaders also discussed international support for the Lebanese military.
Aoun said Lebanon remained committed to the framework agreement reached in June but argued that full implementation would be difficult while Israeli attacks continued and Israeli forces remained on Lebanese territory.
The June agreement, brokered by the United States, set out a process tied to expanded Lebanese state control in the south, the disarmament of non-state armed groups and an eventual Israeli withdrawal. Its implementation has since stalled amid continued Israeli operations and disputes over sequencing.
Aoun said the Lebanese army’s role was expanding in the south and that the state intended to strengthen its authority there. He also reiterated that only state institutions should ultimately exercise armed authority in Lebanon.
Tensions remain high despite the framework, with Israeli forces still occupying parts of southern Lebanon and carrying out strikes, while Hezbollah has opposed disarmament under current conditions.
