Arab League Secretary-General Nabil Fahmy has called for concrete political and financial support for Lebanon, as Lebanese leaders pressed for a diplomatic solution, Israel’s withdrawal and reconstruction. “Lebanon is among the Arab League’s priorities, and among my own priorities as its secretary-general,” he said on Monday during a visit to Beirut that included meetings with President Joseph Aoun, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. Meeting the Arab League chief, Aoun accused Israel of failing to comply with the agreed framework and continuing its violations in South Lebanon, saying such actions only strengthened Lebanese determination to defend their land and rights. He reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to diplomacy despite its difficulties, describing it as far less costly than a devastating war. Declaring that it was time for Lebanon to enjoy some respite, Aoun welcomed Arab efforts to help the country overcome its challenges and stressed the importance of dialogue and negotiations. The secretary-general said his visit followed a decision by Arab foreign ministers reaffirming support for Lebanon’s sovereignty, institutions and citizens. He called for tangible financial and practical assistance that would strengthen state institutions and directly benefit the population, pledging to intensify contacts with Arab and Western governments. Asked about the risk of a wider regional war, Fahmy denied conveying specific warnings to Aoun but acknowledged discussing the dangers posed by multiple conflicts and the possibility of a broader escalation. He also reaffirmed the Arab League’s support for ending Israeli occupation and preserving Lebanon’s stability, stressing that each country had the right to determine its negotiating approach when asked about US-sponsored Lebanese-Israeli talks. In talks with Berri, the Arab League chief reviewed regional developments and continued Israeli attacks, pledging to pursue diplomatic initiatives to secure assistance for Lebanese institutions and citizens. The two also discussed the future of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), whose planned departure has raised concerns over a security vacuum. The secretary-general said the Arab League opposed ending the mission, arguing that a continued UN presence offered the strongest framework for international oversight and accountability. Any alternative, he stressed, would require Lebanese agreement and a clear international legal mandate. Salam urged continued Arab efforts to secure Israel’s complete withdrawal from Lebanese territory and extend state authority nationwide through its own forces. He also urged support for recovery and reconstruction to help residents remain in their communities and strengthen state institutions. The prime minister encouraged Arab investment in infrastructure and regional connectivity projects to stimulate growth and deepen Lebanon’s integration with its Arab neighbors. Fahmy announced plans to visit South Lebanon to assess conditions firsthand and help shape further diplomatic engagement with Arab governments and international partners. The visit would support efforts to secure political and financial assistance for Lebanese institutions, including the army. He said the trip would allow him to return to Cairo with a clearer assessment of Lebanon’s needs, paving the way for follow-up on Arab commitments and closer coordination of political and financial support.
