BEIRUT

Jordan reiterated its support for Lebanon on Thursday to restore security and stability following Israeli onslaught.

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi arrived in Beirut early Thursday where he held talks with new Lebanese President Joseph Aoun.

“Jordan stands by Lebanon to regain its security and stability and begin the reconstruction phase after the Israeli aggression,” he told a press conference.

He underlined the need for Israel to abide by a recent cease-fire deal with Lebanon.

“All Arabs stand by Lebanon to restore its leading and advanced role in the region. We trust the Lebanese leadership and the Lebanese people to restore Beirut’s luster,” he added.

Safadi also reaffirmed his country’s support to the Lebanese army.

"We provided whatever support we could in the previous phase and we will continue to do so, in cooperation with the international community, so that the army can carry out its essential role,” he added.

The top Jordanian diplomat also announced the start of discussions to supply Lebanon with electricity.

Lebanon and Israel reached a cease-fire deal on Nov. 27 to end over 14 months of fighting between the Israeli army and the Hezbollah group since the start of the Gaza war.

Under the cease-fire terms, Israel is required to withdraw its forces south of the Blue Line – a de facto border – in phases, while the Lebanese army is to deploy in southern Lebanon within 60 days.

Data from the Lebanese Health Ministry indicates that since Israel’s onslaught against Lebanon began on Oct. 8, 2023, at least 4,068 people have been killed, including women, children, and health workers, while 16,670 others have been injured.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar