Israel Opposes French, British Role in Lebanon Border Force

Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon are set to resume next week, focusing on establishing a force to ensure the "cleansing of experimental areas" in southern Lebanon from Hezbollah elements. According to Israel's Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan 11) on Thursday, the objective of this round of talks is to build the necessary force to guarantee the removal of Hezbollah from these areas. The report indicated that Israel opposes French and British military involvement in this force. Meanwhile, the United States is showing interest in expanding the withdrawal zones to be handed over to the Lebanese army.

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated on Thursday that "the South is the essential part of Lebanon" and that "the time has come for the state to return to the South." He emphasized that this is a collective responsibility and a duty towards the people. In a separate interview, former US Ambassador to Lebanon David Hill suggested that President Aoun is determined to disarm Hezbollah and prevent Iranian activity in Lebanon. Hill believes Aoun is committed to this mission, seeing it as crucial for the country's stability and for ending Iranian influence and Hezbollah's presence.

President Aoun views this as an opportunity to end challenges to the army's and state's authority. He is fully committed to succeeding in eradicating Iranian presence and influence and ending Hezbollah's role, believing the nation's stability depends on it.