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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to change what he described as his aggressive approach to peace in the Middle East.
According to the Lebanese Presidency, Aoun made the remarks during a meeting with delegations from The Elders, the University of Balamand, and Sigrid Kaag, the former UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process.
"The Israeli prime minister must realize that war will not bring security. Lasting stability can only be achieved through negotiations and the understanding that continuing the war will lead only to more killings, destruction and displacement," Aoun said.
He added that it was impossible to pursue an aggressive approach while speaking of peace and security.
"Historical experience around the world clearly demonstrates that wars and the use of force do not lead to peace and stability, nor do they eliminate non-state armed groups. Therefore, Israel must change its approach if it genuinely seeks peace and security for its people and stability for the region," he said.
Aoun expressed hope that the next round of bilateral talks with Israel, scheduled for July 14 in Rome, would produce tangible and practical results, paving the way for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory and the deployment of the Lebanese army in those areas.
The president said the Lebanese Armed Forces continue to carry out their duties throughout the country despite the difficult economic conditions faced by their personnel, stressing that the military requires continued support and the necessary equipment.
On June 26, Lebanon and Israel signed a framework agreement in Washington following five rounds of consultations held under U.S. auspices.
Under the agreement, the Lebanese Armed Forces are to gradually restore effective sovereign control over the entire territory of the country.