Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam told the UN General Assembly that only the Lebanese state can negotiate for the country, and called for an end to Israeli attacks and Israel’s withdrawal, as Israel-Hezbollah hostilities continue despite a US-brokered ceasefire.
Salam said Lebanon had entered US-mediated negotiations with Israel and described a June framework as reciprocal and phased. He called for a clear timetable and a way to verify implementation, saying any agreement depended on both sides meeting their commitments. He also sought the release of Lebanese prisoners, the return of displaced people and reconstruction of areas damaged in the war.
Salam warned of a possible security vacuum in southern Lebanon after UNIFIL’s mandate ends on December 31, 2026; the mission is to be wound down within a year. He urged agreement on a replacement international presence before UNIFIL’s departure. Lebanon’s military is expected to assume control, with international support, training and monitoring among the options under discussion.
