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3. Meeting Between President J. Aoun and Ortagus: Striving for Lasting Stability and a Hezbollah-Free Lebanon

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun held a meeting in Baabda with Morgan Ortagus, the US Deputy Special Envoy for the Middle East, to discuss key issues of security, stability and cooperation between Lebanon and the United States.

President Aoun stressed that stability in southern Lebanon is closely tied to the completion of Israel's withdrawal and the full implementation of UN Resolution 1701. This includes the terms of the November 27 agreement, which involves the release of Lebanese prisoners. He emphasized the importance of ending Israeli aggressions and assured that the Lebanese army is ready to deploy in areas from which Israeli forces will withdraw, in line with the deadline of February 18. The President also highlighted ongoing, constructive cooperation with international forces to stabilize the region and restore life to the liberated areas.

Regarding the formation of Lebanon's new government, President Aoun announced that consultations are nearing completion, and the new government must reflect the aspirations of the Lebanese people, as stated in his oath of office speech.

Morgan Ortagus reiterated the US stance on Hezbollah, asserting that the group had suffered a military defeat and should no longer have a role in the Lebanese government. She underscored the need to end Hezbollah’s influence and push for its disarmament. Ortagus also noted that Lebanon must shift from relying on international aid to becoming an attractive destination for investment and sustainable economic growth.

Finally, Ortagus expressed her satisfaction with the growing enthusiasm within the Lebanese community in the United States for Lebanon's future and shared this optimism with President Aoun.

In the early afternoon, the media office of the Presidency of the Republic stated in a communiqué that the remarks made by Ms. Ortagus from Baabda "express her own point of view" and in no way engage the presidency.