Egyptian Ambassador to Lebanon Alaa Moussa affirmed Egypt’s full support for the Lebanese state and the positions of Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, expressing hope that the recent US-Iranian agreement would boost regional stability and pave the way to end Israeli violations against Lebanon.
In statements to reporters following his meeting with President Aoun, the Egyptian ambassador stated that the talks covered the latest developments in southern Lebanon alongside the upcoming round of negotiations in Washington, emphasizing that Egypt consistently supports the choices of the Lebanese state and its legitimate institutions.
Alaa Moussa pointed out that Egypt welcomed the US-Iranian agreement in a presidential statement issued yesterday, hoping for a positive impact on regional conditions, particularly in Lebanon, by helping restore stability and lower tensions.
The ambassador explained that Egypt’s presidential statement stressed the necessity of stopping Israeli aggression and ensuring the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territories. He expressed hope that the upcoming negotiations would yield tangible progress to restore calm and resolve chronic issues.
Responding to a question regarding Egypt’s role in securing a ceasefire, Moussa noted that Cairo has long exerted intensive efforts to restore regional stability and lower US-Iranian tensions, adding that Egypt worked closely with its partners to facilitate the agreement which is hoped to reflect positively on the region, including the Palestinian cause.
Alaa Moussa stated that ongoing discussions with regional and international parties aim to restore calm, allowing the Lebanese state to secure its borders, ensure a complete Israeli withdrawal and enforce state authority across all territories.
Regarding the impact of the US-Iranian understanding while separate Lebanon-Israel negotiations take place in Washington, Moussa noted that Lebanese officials acknowledged the influence of the Islamabad talks, highlighting that the first clause of the US-Iranian agreement stipulates a cessation of hostilities in all areas, including Lebanon, which creates a favorable climate for Lebanon’s chosen path of negotiations.
The Egyptian diplomat expressed confidence that high-level US engagement reflects a commitment to Lebanon, which will facilitate reaching understandings that restore stability, halt hostilities and ensure Israeli withdrawal.
Asked whether the Lebanese file has returned to Iran’s hands, Moussa countered that the decision always rests with the Lebanese state, welcoming any external tracks that positively impact the situation as parallel steps to the Washington track.
Alaa Moussa concluded by noting that President Aoun expressed hope for good results from the upcoming rounds in Washington, believing that the American commitment will greatly assist in this regard.
