Beirut: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, assured a delegation of mayors from southern border villages that the reconstruction of destroyed and damaged towns is a top national priority. The initiative aims to facilitate the return of residents to their homes and lands.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, President Aoun emphasized that there are no official plans to establish “empty” or “economic” zones in the region. These claims have been deemed unfounded.

In a separate meeting with a delegation from the family of retired Captain Ahmad Shukr, President Aoun addressed the situation of Lebanese detainees held in Israel. He stated that their file is under daily follow-up and is currently being discussed within negotiations before the Mechanism Committee. The President also noted that security agencies have uncovered the circumstances surrounding Shukr’s abduction, with ongoing investigations and one suspect in custody.