Lebanese Prime Minister Salam stated that the Israeli occupation must end in order to restore sovereignty.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam spoke at the opening of the Beirut International Arab Book Fair held in the capital Beirut.

Emphasizing that the Lebanese people paid a heavy price in the successive wars and crises, Selam said that in addition to the loss of life, people lost their livelihoods, homes and savings.

Stating that they are working to re-establish the decision-making power and authority of the state throughout the country and to implement the necessary reforms for economic recovery and reconstruction, Selam said, "There can be no permanent stability in an order where the decision on war and peace is not made only by the state." he said.

Selam said, "The restoration of state sovereignty requires the end of the Israeli occupation of our lands, the stopping of attacks, the safe and dignified return of the displaced to their homes, and the reconstruction of villages and cities." he said.

On the other hand, expressing his desire for the book fair to go beyond an annual event where books are exhibited and sold, Selam hoped that the fair would be a platform that brings together generations and ideas, opens space for new questions, and encourages initiatives that will keep reading and knowledge alive in daily life throughout the year.

Israel's attacks in Lebanon and the ceasefire process

The Israeli army launched intense air strikes on Lebanon on March 2 and occupied dozens of towns in the south of the country.

The Lebanese government announced that the number of people displaced in the country due to the attacks exceeded 1 million.

The ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel, which came into force on April 17, was later extended several times.

In its latest statement, the Lebanese Ministry of Health reported that at least 4,386 people had died in Israel's attacks on the country since March 2.

On the other hand, Israel and Lebanon signed a "framework agreement" under the mediation of the United States on June 26, aiming to end the conflict between the two countries and ensure long-term peace.

The agreement envisages Israel's gradual withdrawal from the occupied Lebanese territory and the continuation of the negotiation process between the parties. However, despite the agreement reached, Israel continues its occupation and attacks in Lebanon.