Lebanese President Joseph Aoun discussed the army’s future role after a US-brokered framework agreement with Israel. The talks focused on implementing postwar security arrangements and restoring state authority across southern Lebanon. The agreement directly affects Lebanese security forces, border communities, and residents displaced by the conflict.
Aoun met Army Commander Rodolphe Haykal on Tuesday to assess the country’s security situation. The presidency said Haykal briefed the president on recent visits to Türkiye and the United Kingdom, where military cooperation was discussed. They also reviewed the army’s upcoming responsibilities following Lebanese-American-Israeli negotiations that produced the framework agreement.
Last week, Beirut and Tel Aviv signed the US-mediated agreement to gradually end the conflict in Lebanon. The deal provides for a phased Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory, beginning with two undisclosed pilot areas. However, no withdrawal timeline was included. Instead, implementation depends on the Lebanese army assuming full security control in evacuated areas and the disarmament of armed groups, particularly Hezbollah.
Lebanese officials described the agreement as an important first step toward restoring full state sovereignty. In contrast, Hezbollah rejected the framework, calling it humiliating and legally invalid. The group argued that linking an Israeli withdrawal to its disarmament crosses unacceptable red lines. Meanwhile, Aoun praised the army’s leadership and personnel for protecting national security, securing borders, and preserving civil peace. He also dismissed criticism targeting the military, saying public confidence in the armed forces remains strong.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, Israel’s military campaign since March 2 has killed 4,257 people and wounded 12,196 others. More than one million people have also been displaced by the fighting. Israel continues to hold territory in southern Lebanon, including areas occupied for decades and others captured during the 2023–2024 war, while maintaining its presence beyond the border.