Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam reaffirmed the Army's central role in ensuring stability and security across Lebanon, emphasizing its duty to safeguard the country's sovereignty and maintain peace in the southern areas.

"The army is responsible for defending Lebanon, ensuring the security of the homeland, protecting its people, and preserving its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity," Salam stated during a visit to southern Lebanon on Friday.

He stressed the army’s unwavering commitment to these goals despite the complex security environment in the south.

Accompanied by acting Army commander Hassan Audi, as well as ministers Joe Saddi, Tamara Al-Zein, and Fayez Rasamny, Salam visited military facilities in Tyre and Marjayoun, as well as the towns of Khyam and Nabatiyeh. The visit aimed to assess the security situation and reaffirm the government's support for the Lebanese Army's efforts to maintain order in the region.

"The Lebanese army is fully performing its duties, increasing its presence with determination and resolve in order to solidify stability in the south and facilitate the return of our people to their villages and homes," Salam said, highlighting the importance of government support in strengthening the army's capabilities. He committed to boosting the army’s manpower, equipping it with the necessary resources, and enhancing its training.

The premier renewed his government's pledge to reconstruct destroyed homes, stressing that this “is not a promise but a personal commitment from both myself and the government.”

Salam said his government is rallying Arab and international support to pressure Israel into withdrawing from occupied lands and the so-called "five positions" where troops are still stationed.

“There is no real and lasting stability without full Israeli withdrawal,” he stated.

Salam also expressed appreciation for the role of UNIFIL, which has been stationed in southern Lebanon since 1978 to help maintain peace and security.

"I would like to express my appreciation for the role of UNIFIL as a peacekeeping force that has been present in Lebanon and the south since 1978," he said, acknowledging the sacrifices made by UNIFIL personnel. He praised the collaboration between the Lebanese Army and UNIFIL in implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to ensure stability in southern Lebanon.

"We reject any aggression against UNIFIL and reaffirm our commitment to working relentlessly to arrest and hold accountable those responsible for such actions," he added, underscoring the importance of ensuring the safety of peacekeepers.