Beirut: Prime Minister Nawaf Salam toured several southern villages, including Aitaroun, Ain Ebel, and Rmeish, stressing the state's responsibility to stand by citizens and support their resilience following the recent war.

According to National News Agency - Lebanon, in Aitaroun, Salam remarked on the town's deep suffering after the destruction of homes, land, and daily life, noting the residents' determination to return and rebuild as a conscious choice of steadfastness. He emphasized that the state must be a true partner through concrete steps and serious follow-up. Key challenges include access to agricultural land, water reservoirs, and irrigation networks, alongside support for tobacco farming, which serves as a stability pillar for local families. Salam announced a package of projects for Aitaroun, including rehabilitating roads, telecommunications, and water networks, rebuilding the intermediate school and social affairs center, restoring water facilities with solar power, and supporting agricultural greenhouses.

In Ain Ebel, the prime minister reaffirmed that the state is responsible for every southern village and all citizens without discrimination. He stressed the importance of cohesion among villages of different backgrounds as a safeguard for the entire region, describing Ain Ebel as a symbol of coexistence and shared life.

In Rmeish, Salam explained that his visit aimed to address long-standing neglect rather than war damage alone. He underlined equality among all Lebanese and paid tribute to the village's sons in the Lebanese Army, including martyr Fran§ois El Hajj. He emphasized that supporting agriculture is essential to stability, alongside reviving productive, touristic, and commercial life. Salam announced initial projects for Rmeish, including rehabilitating the social affairs center, upgrading the electricity network, and supporting agricultural greenhouses.