Lebanon asks Greece to support Israel deal, UNIFIL

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun asked Greece on Monday to help implement a US-sponsored framework deal with Israel and to support efforts to continue a UN role in south Lebanon.

Aoun made the appeal in Athens during a meeting with Greek President Konstantinos Tassoulas, hours after Greece and Israel announced that Athens was buying a $3.5 billion aerial defence system from Israel.

Israel and Lebanon launched direct talks aimed at ending hostilities after Iran-backed Hezbollah drew Lebanon into the Middle East war in March by attacking Israel, which responded with strikes and a ground invasion. In late June, the two countries signed a framework deal calling for Hezbollah's disarmament, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from south Lebanon and deployment of the Lebanese army to the area, starting in "pilot zones".

“Lebanon and the Lebanese people are tired of wars,” Aoun said. He said the agreement “cannot be implemented unilaterally” and asked for Greece's help. Aoun said Israeli attacks since the latest war erupted had killed more than 4,300 people in Lebanon, wounded more than 12,000 and destroyed between 60 and 70 villages.

At a press conference with Aoun, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said Greece supported “the sovereignty, independence and unity of Lebanon” and would support efforts aimed at de-escalation and mutual understanding.

Aoun said he wanted continued Greek support for Lebanon's army, a “full withdrawal” of Israeli forces and Lebanese state control across the country, referring to his government's pledge to disarm Hezbollah. He also said he hoped for Greek help at the United Nations, where Lebanon is discussing continuation of a UN role in south Lebanon.

Lebanon is seeking renewal of the mandate of the UNIFIL peacekeeping force in south Lebanon. UNIFIL has acted as a buffer between Lebanon and Israel for decades, but its mandate expires at the end of this year. The United States and Israel oppose a renewal.

Greece has historically maintained cordial relations with Arab states while also developing strong military ties with Israel.