Mikati endeavors to secure UNIFIL mandate extension amid Israeli aggression, follows up on local development with Grand Serail visitors

Caretaker Prime Minister, Najib Mikati, on Thursday reaffirmed that the ongoing diplomatic efforts aim to ensure the automatic extension of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate in the UN Security Council. Simultaneously, the PM emphasized ongoing efforts to halt Israel's continued aggression on Lebanon and fully implement UN Security Council Resolution 1701. According to Mikati, Resolution 1701 remains the key solution for stabilizing southern Lebanon. During his meetings at the Grand Serail today, Mikati stressed that diplomatic communications regarding UNIFIL's renewal have shown understanding of Lebanon's demand to maintain the force's mission without amendments that could complicate the already tense situation. The PM expressed hope that this understanding would be formalized by the end of the month, safeguarding UNIFIL's role in southern Lebanon. Mikati also underscored the importance of internal solidarity, calling on political actors and media outlets to avoid spreading fea r and heightening tensions. He further encouraged practical proposals for navigating the current crisis rather than resorting to negative criticism or boycotts, which offer no solutions. Earlier on Thursday, Mikati chaired a meeting to discuss the 2025 budget, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Saadeh Shami, Finance Minister Youssef Khalil, and other officials. The PM also met with Minister of Youth and Sports George Kallas and MP Akram Chehayeb, with whom he discussed developmental issues in Aley. Additionally, Mikati welcomed a delegation from the Arab tribes of Khaldeh, headed by Sheikh Talal Daher, who called for easing tensions following Khaldeh incidents and addressing the detainees' situation. Source: National news agency - Lebanon