Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati affirmed that “the solution begins with the implementation of Resolution 1701, and today we call for a ceasefire,” adding: “Enough destruction, war, and bloodshed. In the end, we will implement Resolution 1701, so let’s implement it now to prevent further bloodshed.”
In a media briefing after the Paris conference, Mikati thanked “everyone who contributed to the success of the conference and all that was sent for humanitarian causes in Lebanon, in addition to their solidarity with Lebanon and the Lebanese state. The aid has been generous, and we hope the war ends so that we can rebuild the state and elect a president.”
Mikati said: “There is significant international pressure to stop the fighting, and all the meetings that have taken place in recent days and the speeches at the conferences all affirm solidarity with Lebanon and demand a ceasefire. However, this is not in my hands or in the hands of the countries that have stood with us, but rather in Israel’s hands, which continues with wars, destruction, and explosions in the region.”
He added: “We are committed to the humanitarian aspect, but that alone is not enough because humanity must be protected before it can be helped, and the legitimacy of humanity worldwide is at risk.”
Mikati emphasised that the immediate priority is to stop the fighting and then implement UN Resolution 1701 by fully deploying the Lebanese army in southern Lebanon, including areas south of the Litani River, while strengthening its cooperation with UNIFIL.
He also highlighted the need to elect a president and form a new government committed to enacting necessary reforms.Â
