Diplomatic cables mobilized to avoid war: Lebanese PM
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Lebanese authorities have urged the international community to maintain a firm stance to prevent "destructive aggression," the caretaker prime minister said.
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Lebanese caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati speaks at the government palace in Beirut, Lebanon, on Monday, March 27, 2023. (AP)
Caretaker Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati announced on Monday that all relevant Lebanese ministries and government agencies have actively mobilized their diplomatic channels to implement preventive measures aimed at avoiding a war with "Israel."
"Active diplomatic contacts are underway in a number of areas to prevent Israel's threat against Lebanon, and on another line of ceasefire in the Gaza Strip," Mikati told reporters.
Mikati added that Lebanese authorities have urged the international community to maintain a firm stance to prevent "destructive aggression" as well as take measures to de-escalate tensions and deter "Israel" in the event of a potential war with Lebanon.
He further said that Beirut is pursuing consultations with certain countries regarding the extension of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) mandate without any changes.
Read more: Lebanese Army resumes patrols with UNIFIL after 'trespassing incident'
The past few days have witnessed significant upheavals amid ongoing aggressions on the part of the Israeli regime against Lebanon.
In late July, Israeli forces carried out a strike on the Southern Suburb of Beirut, killing four civilians and injuring 74 others. Hezbollah commander Fouad Shokor was among those martyred.
Since then, Israeli jets have frequently circled the skies of Beirut, unleashing sonic booms to instill fear and intimidation among the Lebanese people.
Health system can withstand four months of war
Earlier this month, Lebanese Health Minister Firass Abiad told Sputnik that in the event of an Israeli aggression, Lebanon's health system would be able to withstand the impact of war for a maximum of four months, and preparations are currently underway.
"Preparations are in full swing in the ministry to confront any large-scale war with Israel. A medical emergency headquarters has been launched. The health sector is prepared to counter [the effects of] war for four months," the minister said.
The preparation and restocking of hospitals with medical equipment and medicines are directly tied to the potential threat of an Israeli military campaign, and these efforts also aim to ensure the provision of medical services to refugees, Abiad added.
"We have 20 ambulance crews, most of which are now in southern Lebanon. We are working to increase their number. We are also recruiting teams for the Chouf region and the western Beqaa [province]," the minister noted.
Read more: Israeli officers warn of increased threat of Radwan force incursion
