Lebanese president demands Israeli withdrawal from occupied border posts

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has called for an end to Israel’s occupation of five border posts in southern Lebanon during a phone conversation with US national security adviser Mike Waltz.

According to a statement from the Lebanese presidency, Aoun stressed the “urgent need” for Israel to withdraw from the remaining occupied areas, enforce UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and finalise a ceasefire agreement to stabilise the region.

He also urged Waltz to prioritise securing the release of Lebanese citizens unlawfully detained by Israel.

While the Israeli army withdrew from several occupied towns and villages in southern Lebanon on Tuesday, it continues to hold positions deep inside Lebanese territory.