The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, announced on Tuesday night and taking effect at 4 AM on Wednesday, was the focal point of discussion during the Council of Ministers' meeting on Wednesday.
Following the meeting, Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced at a press conference the beginning of "the reconstruction process" and "the phase of strengthening the Army's presence in the South." He also urged Israel to withdraw from all occupied areas, reiterated the government's commitment to implementing Resolution 1701 and stabilizing the Blue Line.
Mikati emphasized the need for everyone to support state reform and reconstruction to rebuild international trust in Lebanon. He acknowledged the exceptional times we are living in and stressed how great the responsibility for everyone is.
Before the meeting, Mikati met with the Army's Commander-in-Chief, General Joseph Aoun, who briefed him on the security situation and the plan to enhance troop deployment in the southern region.
Notably, Free Patriotic Movement ministers, who had previously boycotted Cabinet meetings, participated in Wednesday's session.
Caretaker Defense Minister Maurice Slim highlighted the importance of upholding national sovereignty and ensuring people's security within the ceasefire agreement. He rejected any notion of granting freedom of movement to the Israeli Army in Lebanon, emphasizing the agreement's focus on the right of self-defense for both parties.
Slim emphasized the need for the war to cease and underscored the Army's essential role in implementing the ceasefire agreement, stating that the Army would take all necessary steps to execute the plan.
Regarding troop deployment in the South, Slim mentioned that the Army would gradually increase its strength. He explained the recruitment process involving a first group of young Lebanese volunteers undergoing three months of training, followed by three additional groups.
During his opening remarks, Mikati commended national solidarity and distributed a copy of the ceasefire agreement in English to the ministers. He requested that the Army commander outline the plan for finalizing the Lebanese Army's deployment in the South, emphasizing the term "finalize" over "begin."
General Joseph Aoun reported an increase in the number of Lebanese soldiers killed in Israeli strikes to 48.
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