Salam says state monopoly on arms to be discussed in cabinet soon
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said Wednesday after meeting Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi in Bkerki that cabinet will soon discuss the monopolization of weapons and extending the state's authority on all Lebanese territories.
Salam also called for Israel's withdrawal from the five hills its troops are still occupying in south Lebanon. He said he has discussed this issue with Deputy U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Morgan Ortagus as she visited Lebanon Saturday.
Ortagus during her visit emphasized the need for the Lebanese Army to assert control over all Lebanese territory, not just south of the Litani River.
During her meeting with Salam, she welcomed Lebanese officials’ willingness to engage in shuttle diplomacy to resolve Israel’s withdrawal from the five strategic hills.
Israel maintains control over five strategic hilltops in southern Lebanon, citing their importance for security as they provide key vantage points to monitor Hezbollah movements and prevent potential threats along the border.
"The five occupied hills have no (strategic) importance and Israel must withdraw from these hills as soon as possible," Salam said.
Source: Naharnet
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