His Excellency Mr Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), has welcomed the ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israeli forces. He expressed hope that this will be a serious step towards ending the war in Lebanon, leading to an Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory, the full implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and the return of displaced persons to their homes.
In a statement, His Excellency the Secretary General explained that the ceasefire will contribute to protecting innocent civilians and creating conditions for the implementation of all relevant international resolutions concerning Lebanon. He urged all parties to fully comply with the agreement to help achieve security and stability in the region.
He reiterated the GCC's unwavering support for the Lebanese people, emphasising its continued commitment to Lebanon's sovereignty, security, and stability, as outlined in the GCC Ministerial Statement 161.
This statement calls for the complete implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which underscores the need for Israel to respect Lebanese borders and for the Lebanese government to exert control over all Lebanese territory, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the Taif Agreement.