Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati presided over a Cabinet session at the Grand Serail on Wednesday, with ministers and Army Commander General Joseph Aoun in attendance, as the Lebanese government focused on implementing the newly enacted ceasefire agreement with Israel and addressing the country’s recovery and reconstruction.

Following the session, Mikati expressed optimism about the country’s future, hoping that this "new day" brings peace and stability.

"Today marks the beginning of the reconstruction of what has been destroyed and the return of legitimate institutions, with a focus on strengthening the role of the Lebanese Army," Mikati said.

The premier highlighted several crucial decisions taken by the Cabinet, notably reaffirming Lebanon’s commitment to UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which mandates the deployment of the Lebanese Army in southern Lebanon. He also underscored the government’s determination to enforce UN Resolution 2749, ensuring full implementation of Resolution 1701 and preventing violations of the ceasefire.

"We are committed to the sovereignty of the State, on land, sea, and air, in the face of all violations," Mikati stated, reinforcing Lebanon’s position on its territorial integrity.

The Prime Minister urged unity among the Lebanese people, saying, "Tomorrow will be better, provided we put our differences aside." He also called on the Lebanese to reflect on the lessons of the conflict, calling on them to "learn from what has happened.

Mikati issued a direct call for Israel to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and withdraw from all occupied areas in line with the terms of Resolution 1701.

Moreover, he stressed that the Lebanese government was focused on rebuilding the country and restoring displaced populations to their homes.

"Everyone was betting on failure, but despite the difficult social conditions, we saw the Lebanese embrace each other," Mikati remarked, acknowledging the resilience shown by citizens amid the crisis.

Mikati also expressed gratitude toward Lebanon’s allies for their support in halting the violence and displacement, assuring that efforts to reconstruct Lebanon and facilitate the return of displaced persons were already underway.

In terms of Lebanon's political future, Mikati expressed hope for a swift resolution to the presidential election stalemate, hoping that a new head of state will be elected in the near future.

Prior to the Cabinet meeting, Defense Minister Maurice Slim provided updates on the military’s role in the recovery process, saying that the Army Commander will present to the government the plan for deploying the army in the south.

"There is no disagreement between us, except for matters that go beyond the constitution," Slim said. "Otherwise, we are united to preserve the country. The army will deploy, and 1,500 recruits will be enlisted, working through its military units."

"What matters to us from the ceasefire agreement is that it does not infringe on national sovereignty and that it guarantees the security of our people. The army will do whatever is necessary to implement the plan," Slim affirmed.

Before the session, Mikati met with Army Commander General Joseph Aoun, who briefed him on the security situation and the Lebanese Army's plans to enhance its deployment in southern Lebanon.