The representative of Slovenia, Samuel Žbogar, whose country currently holds the presidency of the council, stated that the delegation arrived in Beirut at a ‘crucial stage’ for implementing the ceasefire agreement concluded last November. He highlighted during a press conference the necessity for all parties to adhere to this agreement and noted the progress Lebanon has made this year, according to the Lebanese National News Agency.
Žbogar expressed support for the government’s decision to ensure the state’s monopoly on weapons, calling for increased international support for the Lebanese army. He explained that the visit allowed for discussions on the options available for implementing resolution 1701 following the anticipated departure of UNIFIL, pointing out that this issue will require in-depth discussions in 2026.
The ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel came into effect on November 27, 2024, more than a year after Hezbollah opened what it called a ‘support front for the Gaza Strip’ on October 8, 2023. The Israeli army was supposed to complete its withdrawal from the occupied areas in southern Lebanon by the morning of January 26, 2025. However, Israel did not adhere to the deadline and maintained its military presence at five strategic points in southern Lebanon, citing the reason of ‘ensuring the protection of northern settlements.’ Despite the agreement, it occasionally launches strikes in Lebanon, claiming they are to remove ‘Hezbollah threats.’
