Lebanon’s foreign minister has defended the country’s framework agreement with Israel, which was signed in Washington, DC, last week.
– Youssef Raggi said the framework is the only path to ensuring Israel withdraws from southern Lebanon.
– “The negotiations launched by the Lebanese state have no alternative and no parallel track. They are the only path to securing a full Israeli withdrawal and reaching a lasting agreement that ensures stability while safeguarding Lebanon’s rights, sovereignty, and national interests.”
– Israel occupies about 6 percent of the country following its invasion in mid-March, which was launched in response to attacks carried out by the Iran-backed Hezbollah.
– The framework has drawn sharp criticism across Lebanon’s political spectrum. Critics argue it benefits Israel at Beirut’s expense.
https://aje.news/313ayw?update=4723983