Lebanon’s outgoing Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, has called on the United Nations to adopt a resolution for an “immediate cease-fire” between Israel and Hezbollah, following more than a year of border tensions that escalated into a full-scale conflict after September 23.
During a statement from the Grand Serail following a Cabinet meeting, Mikati disclosed that the United States is backing the call for a cease-fire, citing a recent conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who signaled support for halting hostilities.
Mikati emphasized Lebanon’s commitment to fully implementing UN Resolution 1701, which mandates a cessation of hostilities and allows only the Lebanese Army and UN peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon. He affirmed that Beirut is determined to defend its territory and pledged to strengthen the army’s presence in the south.
Hezbollah, which is part of the Lebanese government, also agreed to the measures proposed by the Cabinet. Mikati stressed that diplomatic efforts based on Resolution 1701 remain a priority for resolving the conflict.
The Prime Minister announced the opening of an air bridge between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon for humanitarian aid starting Saturday, with initial distributions of medicines already underway in reception centers for displaced persons. He also assured that Rafic Hariri International Airport and border crossings were operating normally despite the conflict.
