On the sidelines of his visit to the United Nations in New York, President Joseph Aoun met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Monday evening, an encounter focused on Lebanon’s security and post-conflict recovery.
President Aoun called on the United States to pressure Israel into fully implementing its obligations under the November ceasefire declaration, including an end to hostilities in southern Lebanon, the withdrawal from remaining positions, the release of Lebanese detainees and the complete enforcement of UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Aoun emphasized that, since the ceasefire was adopted, no violations have been recorded from the Lebanese side.
Call for Military Aid and Reconstruction Support
The Lebanese President also requested increased US military assistance in the form of equipment and logistical support for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF), which he noted are tasked with responsibilities far beyond southern Lebanon – including securing the northern and eastern borders, combating smuggling and protecting public institutions.
In addition, Aoun urged Washington to support the organization of an international conference on Lebanon’s reconstruction, stressing the need to create conditions for a “just, comprehensive and lasting peace” in the Middle East.
US Reaffirms Support for Lebanon
Secretary Rubio reiterated the United States’ continued support for Lebanon, commending the efforts made by President Aoun and the Lebanese government to stabilize the country despite overlapping crises.
The Lebanese delegation included Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi, Lebanon’s Ambassador to the US Nada Hamadeh Moawad and political advisor Jean Aziz. On the American side, Rubio was joined by policy advisor Michael Needham, Ambassador Tom Barrack and Morgan Ortagus.
Meeting with Senator Jeanne Shaheen
Following the bilateral talks, President Aoun met with US Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. He thanked her for her role in securing $193 million in aid to the LAF and an additional $40 million for the Internal Security Forces, commitments that had previously been discussed during her visit to Baabda Palace.
According to Aoun, this support reflects US confidence in the LAF’s ability to safeguard the country’s stability.
Reforms and Governance
Aoun also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implementing the financial and economic reforms agreed upon with the IMF and World Bank, and expressed support for the military’s plan to uphold the government’s decision regarding the exclusive control of weapons by the state.
Senator Shaheen praised the discipline and professionalism of the LAF, noting that political and security progress would pave the way for further US support.
الرئيس جوزاف عون طلب من وزير الخارجية الأميركية ماركو روبيو، مساعدة الولايات المتحدة الأميركية على تأكيد التزام اسرائيل بمضمون إعلان ٢٧ تشرين الثاني ٢٠٢٤، لوقف الاعمال العدائية في جنوب لبنان وانسحابها من النقاط التي تحتلها واعادة الاسرى اللبنانيين المحتجزين لديها، وتطبيق القرار… pic.twitter.com/nveloIekzV
— Lebanese Presidency (@LBpresidency) September 22, 2025
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