Aoun: Lebanon insists on ceasefire to end volatile situation in south

President Joseph Aoun on Friday told European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, Hadja Lahbib, that "the support provided by the EU to Lebanon must be channeled into exerting pressure to compel Israel to cease fire and refrain from demolishing and bulldozing homes in the villages it occupies in the south, as well as from targeting paramedics, journalists and civil defense personnel."

"Lebanon insists on ceasing fire and all military actions in order to launch negotiations that would end the current volatile situation in the south, paving the way for the redeployment of the army to the international border, the release of Lebanese prisoners, and the return of displaced persons to their towns and villages," Aoun said.

He noted that the heavy human losses resulting from the Israeli attacks on Lebanon have increased the need for aid to displaced persons daily.

"Therefore, Lebanon appeals to its sisterly and friendly nations to provide urgent humanitarian and development assistance," the president urged.

He also said that "the Lebanese are united in the face of the current challenges, holding fast to their unity and standing together against any attempt to sow discord among them."