Minister of Defense Michel Menassa reiterated Lebanon's strong commitment to cooperating with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), expressing gratitude for the peacekeeping force’s role and sacrifices in the country as he also stressed that Lebanon will not tolerate any attacks on UNIFIL personnel.

In a meeting held earlier on Friday at his office in Yarzeh, Menassa welcomed UNIFIL Head of Mission and Force Commander General Aroldo Lázaro, who was accompanied by a delegation that congratulated Menassa on his recent appointment as Minister of Defense. The two sides discussed the latest developments, particularly in Lebanon's southern region, where UNIFIL operates.

“Lebanon is committed to the highest levels of cooperation with UNIFIL, and we deeply appreciate the force’s role and the sacrifices of its personnel,” Menassa said. “Any attack on UNIFIL troops will be met with firm rejection from Lebanon.”

The minister emphasized the importance of the continued close collaboration between UNIFIL and the Lebanese Army, especially in the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Menassa noted that the Lebanese Army plays a crucial role in maintaining security and stability in southern Lebanon, at a time when Israel has continued to violate the resolution and Lebanon's sovereignty through repeated and flagrant actions.

“Lebanon stands firm in its position: Israel must fully withdraw from the Lebanese territories it occupies,” Menassa stressed. “This remains a core priority for Lebanon’s sovereignty and security.”