Mikati condemns Israeli aggression as ‘war of extermination,’ reaffirms commitment to UN Resolution 1701

Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Monday condemned Israel's continued military actions against Lebanon, calling it a 'war of extermination in every sense of the word' and a 'destructive plan' aimed at annihilating Lebanese villages and green spaces. Speaking at the start of a cabinet session at the Grand Serail, Mikati reaffirmed his government's full commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which calls for a ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon. 'We are working as a government to stop this new Israeli war and to avoid descending into the unknown,' Mikati said, while urging the international community, particularly the United Nations and the Security Council, to take immediate action to halt the aggression. The Prime Minister also addressed the ongoing budget discussions, stating that deliberations on the draft general budget law were progressing as planned. "We continue today our work on the budget, hoping to finalize it for submission to Parliament wit hin the constitutional timeframe," Mikati noted. The PM highlighted temporary social support measures being discussed while awaiting the finalization of a comprehensive law for submission to Parliament. 'A series of meetings, particularly with military representatives, has been held. We assured them that the government will not hesitate to provide what it can, fully aware of the difficulties facing the public sector. However, escalation and threats do not lead to solutions,' Mikati emphasized. Referring to recent comments by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who warned of southern Lebanon potentially becoming a second Gaza, Mikati said, "This should serve as a wake-up call for international powers to pressure Israel to end its aggression and implement Resolution 2735, solving the Palestinian issue through a two-state solution and comprehensive peace." On a separate note, Mikati congratulated Saudi Arabia on its national day, extending well wishes to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi people. 'We wish the Kingdom continued prosperity under the wisdom of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the vision of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince,' he said, expressing Lebanon's desire to further strengthen the historical ties between the two nations. Mikati concluded by noting, 'Lebanon views Saudi Arabia as a steadfast supporter in all circumstances.' Source: National news agency - Lebanon