Lebanon and Saudi Arabia Strengthen Ties Amid Calls for Israeli Withdrawal

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun visited Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step towards improved bilateral relations. Aoun and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called for Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and emphasized that only the Lebanese state should possess arms. The leaders discussed bolstering trade ties and Saudi support for the Lebanese army amidst the ongoing economic crisis in Lebanon.

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun embarked on a significant diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia, marking the first occasion a Lebanese head of state has made this visit in eight years. During his meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, they discussed various regional issues, including a joint call for an Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon. Both leaders expressed the imperative that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons, emphasizing the need for a unified national defense.

Aoun, previously an army commander, hopes his presidency will pave the way for lifting the longstanding Saudi import ban on Lebanese products, as well as facilitating Saudi tourism to Lebanon. This visit follows a tumultuous period for Hezbollah, where the organization has faced considerable losses during a recent conflict with Israel, which concluded with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. Although Israeli forces began withdrawing in February, they remain present in five locations in Lebanon, a situation that has been criticized by Lebanese officials.

In the aftermath of their summit, both countries issued a statement supporting the Lebanese army and advocating for Israel’s complete withdrawal from all Lebanese territory. Furthermore, Aoun mentioned the possibility of Saudi Arabia reactivating a $3 billion military support package for Lebanon, which had been previously suspended due to Lebanon’s alignment with Iran.

The two leaders agreed to investigate existing challenges to the resumption of Lebanese exports to Saudi Arabia and to facilitate Saudi citizens visiting Lebanon again. Efforts were underscored to stabilize the overall Lebanese economy and implement necessary reforms as required by the international community. President Aoun formally invited Crown Prince Mohammed to visit Lebanon, an invitation that was warmly received.

Aoun’s election, following a prolonged vacancy at the presidential level, alongside new Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, signals potential shifts in Lebanon’s foreign policy. Both leaders are focused on enhancing relationships with Arab nations and prioritizing comprehensive reforms within the country, representing a notable setback for Hezbollah’s influence.

In summary, President Joseph Aoun’s landmark visit to Saudi Arabia has initiated a renewed pathway for cooperation between Lebanon and the kingdom, focusing on regional stability and economic revival. The calls for Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and the support for the Lebanese army underscore the emphasis on state sovereignty. This diplomatic engagement aims to restore ties that have been strained, marking a hopeful chapter in Lebanese-Saudi relations.

Original Source: apnews.com