The Zionist Federation of Australia has welcomed the Israel-Lebanon framework agreement, describing it as an important opportunity for Lebanon to restore its sovereignty and remove Hezbollah’s grip on the country.
The agreement includes commitments by the Lebanese Government to restore its authority across the country, including through the disarmament of Hezbollah. If honoured, those commitments would improve security for both the Lebanese and Israeli people.
Zionist Federation of Australia President Jeremy Leibler said the agreement recognised a simple truth.
“There can be no lasting security while an Iranian-backed terrorist organisation operates as a state within a state.”
“For decades, Hezbollah has undermined Lebanon’s democracy, crippled its economy and repeatedly attacked Israeli civilians. The Lebanese people deserve better.”
“Israel’s conflict has never been with the Lebanese people. It has been with Hezbollah. A sovereign Lebanon, with one government and one army, would be a positive development for both countries.”
ZFA Chief Executive Officer Alon Cassuto said the agreement deserved strong international support.
“This is a chance for Lebanon to reclaim full control of its own territory. The international community should back that effort.”
“The agreement will ultimately be judged by whether Hezbollah is disarmed and the Lebanese Government is able to exercise its authority across the country.”
“If this agreement helps end Hezbollah’s military presence in southern Lebanon, it will make both Israelis and Lebanese safer.”