Lebanese President Joseph Aoun met Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty in Beirut on Wednesday to discuss arms control and escalating Israeli attacks. Abdelatty described his visit, beginning Tuesday evening, as a reflection of Egypt’s commitment to Lebanon’s security and regional stability.
A Lebanese presidency statement said the Egyptian diplomat emphasised coordination, supporting Aoun’s plan to expand army control across southern Lebanon. The ceasefire declared in November 2024 required Israel to withdraw from southern Lebanon by January, but troops remain at five border outposts.
“Egypt supports the Lebanese government’s decision to confine all weapons under state control, including Hezbollah’s arms,” Abdelatty said after the talks. Lebanon approved a plan on Aug. 5, based on US envoy Tom Barrack’s draft, aiming to place all arms under army oversight before 2025 ends.
Abdelatty warned against further escalation, calling for immediate halts to Israeli violations and promoting diplomatic solutions over military approaches. “The entire region is on the brink of full escalation, and this serves no party whatsoever,” he said, urging tension reduction channels.
Southern Lebanon has faced near-daily Israeli air raids, targeting Hezbollah personnel and infrastructure, heightening fears of renewed conflict across the border. On Sunday, Israeli forces killed Hezbollah commander Haitham Tabtabai in a strike on Beirut, marking the latest deadly confrontation.
The Lebanese Health Ministry reported at least 331 killed and 945 injured by Israeli fire since the November ceasefire, highlighting the human cost. Egypt’s involvement underscores growing regional diplomatic efforts, while Lebanon struggles to assert full control over southern weapons amid mounting Israeli attacks.