NNA - Lebanese presidential candidate, Chibli Mallat, on Wednesday addressed the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing Lebanon's entitlement to protection amidst escalating tensions. He called upon France to leverage its influence in the Security Council to adopt a resolution that goes beyond mere verbal commitments to prevent escalation—commitments he deemed unrealistic for the Israeli government to adhere to. 

Mallat insisted on a resolution that imposes a ceasefire in southern Lebanon, Gaza, and the West Bank, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 2735, which has been obstructed by Israel since its unanimous adoption on June 10. 

“A specific date for the ceasefire must be included in the resolution. Should Israel fail to comply, Lebanon will exercise its right to seek assistance from courageous governments regionally and internationally to enforce peace through international law,” Mallat stated. 

Reiterating Lebanon’s right to Responsibility to Protect (R2P), Mallat joined voices with Walid Jumblatt, Melhem Khalaf, and the overwhelming majority of Lebanese deputies, highlighting the urgent need to elect a head of state capable of uniting the nation in these tumultuous times. 

Mallat finally lamented the tragic loss of 500 Lebanese lives during the violent events of September 23, 2024, underscoring the need for collective action to confront the ongoing crisis.

========R.H.