Fri Jan 17 16:01:20 UTC 2025: ## Macron Urges Israel’s Swift Withdrawal from Lebanon, Pledges Reconstruction Aid
**Beirut, Lebanon** – French President Emmanuel Macron, in his first visit to Beirut since the election of President Joseph Aoun, pressed Israel to accelerate its troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon, emphasizing the need for a complete pullout by the January 26th deadline stipulated in the ceasefire agreement that ended last year’s war with Hezbollah. Macron’s visit marks a significant show of support for Lebanon’s new leadership.
Speaking alongside President Aoun, Macron reiterated France’s commitment to strengthening the Lebanese army and its deployment in the south, insisting on the army’s sole control over weapons in the region. He emphasized the importance of full compliance with the ceasefire terms, which also require Hezbollah to remove its fighters and weapons from the south.
A committee comprising representatives from Israel, Lebanon, France, the US, and the UN is overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire. Macron called for the process to be expedited, stating that while progress has been made, a complete and lasting withdrawal of Israeli forces is crucial.
Beyond the immediate security concerns, Macron announced France’s intention to host an international reconstruction conference in the coming weeks to garner financial support for Lebanon’s recovery. The conference, to be held after President Aoun visits Paris, aims to mobilize significant international aid for infrastructure rebuilding.
Al Jazeera’s Zeina Khodr reported that Macron’s visit signifies a new era for Lebanon, highlighting the French president’s support for the newly elected leadership. Macron also addressed the need for internal reforms within Lebanon’s judiciary, financial sector, and public sector as a new government is formed.
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