Beirut: Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun has expressed his approval for the involvement of Italy and other European countries in any force that succeeds the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) after its scheduled withdrawal in 2027. This initiative aims to bolster the Lebanese military in safeguarding security along the southern borders.

According to Qatar News Agency, Lebanon has endorsed negotiations to end hostilities, facilitate the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and ensure the return of Lebanese prisoners and residents to their southern homes and properties. During a meeting in Beirut with Italian Minister of Defence Guido Crosetto, Aoun emphasized Lebanon's anticipation of positive actions from the opposite side and the importance of support from allied nations for a fruitful negotiation process. He reiterated Lebanon's commitment to peace and its focus on defending its borders and sovereignty through its military forces.

Aoun highlighted the critical role of the Lebanese military in maintaining regional stability, noting that the security conditions in Lebanon could have widespread implications for the entire area.

In response, Crosetto affirmed Italy's readiness to maintain its presence in international operation zones along the southern Litani post-UNIFIL withdrawal. He also mentioned that other European countries are prepared to adopt a similar stance to support the Lebanese army in its southern missions.