Beirut: President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, on Thursday told the UN Secretary-General's Personal Envoy for the Middle East, Jean Arnault, that Lebanon chose direct negotiations with Israel under U.S. sponsorship after concluding that continued fighting would not achieve its objectives.

According to National news agency - Lebanon, Aoun stated that Lebanon's priorities include securing a lasting ceasefire, ensuring Israeli withdrawal, deploying the Lebanese Army along the international border, returning detainees, and repatriating Lebanese remains. These measures aim to facilitate the return of displaced residents and initiate reconstruction efforts.

President Aoun urged the international community to exert pressure on Israel to implement the agreed framework. He reaffirmed Lebanon's commitment to maintaining the state's exclusive authority over arms and decisions regarding war and peace. Additionally, he called for ongoing support for the Lebanese Army and the nation's economy.

During the meeting, Arnault conveyed the greetings of UN Secretary-General Ant³nio Guterres and reiterated the UN's support for Lebanon's sovereignty. He emphasized the importance of deploying state authority throughout Lebanon, continued backing for the army, and ongoing humanitarian assistance.