Beirut: President of the Republic, General Joseph Aoun, received a phone call this afternoon from French President Emmanuel Macron, with talks touching on recent developments, particularly the ceasefire announcement and the ongoing preparations for launching negotiations based on President Aoun’s initiative.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, Aoun thanked his French counterpart for the support Lebanon continues to receive from France in all areas, and for the French aid to alleviate the suffering of the Lebanese people. During the call, President Aoun offered his condolences to President Macron on the martyrdom of the French soldier serving with the UNIFIL peacekeepers in south Lebanon. He strongly condemned the attack on the French force, which is carrying out its duties on Lebanese soil to promote peace and stability in its area of deployment in the south. He also praised the sacrifices of the international soldiers, hoping for a speedy recovery for the wounded.

President Aoun underlined Lebanon’s categorical rejection of any attack on UNIFIL, confirming commitment to preserving the safety of these forces and ensuring suitable conditions so they can perform their duties. He indicated that he has ordered an immediate investigation into the incident to determine responsibilities, stressing that Lebanon will not hesitate to pursue those involved and bring them to justice.