Lebanese leaders urge Israel to release detainees

Alsharq Tribune-Ahmed Essam

Lebanese leaders on Thursday called for the immediate return of Lebanese prisoners held in Israeli jails, urging global intervention through the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

"Lebanon demands the international community and humanitarian organizations pressure Israel to ensure the return of Lebanese prisoners," Prime Minister Nawaf Salam said during a meeting in Beirut with ICRC Regional Director Nicolas Von Arx.

According to the official National News Agency, Salam called on the ICRC to help verify the number, condition, and location of Lebanese detainees held by Israel, stressing that Lebanon continues to urge its international partners "to secure their safe return."

Earlier in the day, President Joseph Aoun met Von Arx at Baabda Palace, reaffirming Lebanon's demand for the release of all Lebanese prisoners.

A statement released by the Lebanese Presidency noted that Aoun requested the ICRC's assistance in obtaining information about the detainees' situation and ensuring their well-being. He said that "the release of the prisoners is a national priority, and Lebanon cannot abandon its citizens.