Lebanon, Saudi Arabia Enhance Relations, Demand Israeli Withdrawal

Lebanon's President Joseph Aoun concluded a significant visit to Saudi Arabia, marking the first by a Lebanese head of state in eight years. Discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focused on regional security, specifically calling for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and affirming that only the Lebanese state should possess weapons. The visit aims to improve bilateral relations, with hopes of lifting a ban on Lebanese imports and facilitating Saudi travel to Lebanon. Aoun's discussions also included the reactivation of a $3 billion military aid package for the Lebanese army, which had been suspended amid tensions over Iran's influence in Lebanon. Both leaders agreed on the need to support the Lebanese army and implement the Taif Agreement to restore state authority across Lebanon. The summit concluded with an invitation for the Crown Prince to visit Lebanon, signaling a potential thaw in relations between the two nations.