Lebanese President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia to enhance bilateral relations and called for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon. This visit signifies a thaw in relations impacted by Iran’s influence. A joint commitment was made for the Lebanese army’s support and to rejuvenate economic ties between the two countries.
Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun recently concluded a visit to Saudi Arabia, marking the first visit by a Lebanese head of state to the kingdom in eight years. During his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, they discussed regional matters, emphasizing the necessity for Israeli troops to withdraw from southern Lebanon and affirming that only state authorities should hold firearms within Lebanon. The visit signifies an effort to strengthen ties between the two nations, which have been strained by Iran’s influence in Lebanon.
President Aoun’s visit is significant in light of the recent military challenges faced by the Iran-backed Hezbollah, which experienced substantial losses in a 14-month conflict with Israel that culminated in a ceasefire in November. Although Israel has withdrawn most of its forces from Lebanon, it remains at five positions, which Lebanese officials regard as a breach of the ceasefire agreement. Both leaders agreed on the urgent need for the Lebanese army’s support and adherence to state authority over arms in the country.
President Aoun indicated that Saudi Arabia is poised to reactivate a $3 billion military assistance package for the Lebanese army, which had previously been suspended in response to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran. The discussions also included addressing barriers to the resumption of Lebanese imports into Saudi Arabia and facilitating Saudi tourists’ visits to Lebanon, foreseeing improvements in Lebanon’s beleaguered economy.
Aoun extended an invitation to Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, which was positively received. The election of President Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam earlier this year opened new channels for diplomatic engagement with Arab nations and committed to implementing essential reforms, signaling a potential shift in the balance of power away from Hezbollah.
The diplomatic engagement between Lebanon and Saudi Arabia reflects a strategic move to mend relations that have been historically challenging. The discussions not only focused on regional security concerns but also hinted at the resumption of economic ties and military support. This visit symbolizes a possible new chapter in Lebanese-Saudi cooperation, with an emphasis on restoring national integrity and fostering regional stability.
Original Source: apnews.com
