Lebanese army can enforce ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel: PM Mikati

Lebanon’s Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, stated, on Sunday, that the Lebanese army is prepared to bolster its presence in the south and enforce a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, provided it receives the necessary military equipment.

In an interview with Sky News Arabia, Mikati emphasized, “The foundation for stability in the south is the full implementation of UN Resolution 1701,” reiterating Lebanon’s commitment to a ceasefire, noting that the Lebanese army is ready to deploy additional forces in the south but lacks the necessary equipment. “Everyone knows the army does not have the required hardware. Once that is provided, the army will be capable of enforcing a ceasefire and fully implementing Resolution 1701 between Lebanon and Israel, which we are committed to,” he said.

Mikati also mentioned that conferences will be held in the next two weeks to rally support for the Lebanese army, securing the equipment necessary to carry out its duties, including disarmament in the southern region. He added that the proper application of Resolution 1701 would enhance the army’s presence and its cooperation with the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) to ensure a safe and stable southern Lebanon.