Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized that “the language of negotiation must take precedence over that of war” during Thursday’s Cabinet meeting at the Baabda Presidential Palace.
A significant portion of the session focused on the ceasefire file and the revival of the security negotiation framework. In this context, President Aoun reaffirmed the appointment of former Lebanese ambassador to the United States, Simon Karam, to head the Lebanese delegation within the ceasefire supervision mechanism, following consultations with Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam. According to Aoun, the inaugural meeting of the commission, held Wednesday in Naqoura, represents “a preparatory step toward subsequent negotiation phases, which are scheduled to begin on December 19.”
The President also praised all those involved in ensuring the success of the papal visit, describing the event as “reflecting a rare image of national unity under the current circumstances.”
The Cabinet also reviewed the monthly report of Army Commander-in-Chief Rodolphe Haykal, detailing missions conducted south of the Litani River.
Following a brief meeting between Aoun and Salam, ministers examined a 20-point agenda, including the implementation of the weapons control plan adopted on August 5. The government is assessing progress in operations aimed at reducing the presence of illegal arms across the country.
Other Cabinet Decisions
The Cabinet approved the extension of temporary staff in the public sector – including contractors, temporary employees, and those under short-term contracts – through the end of 2026, ensuring continuity of public services.
Ministers also continued discussions on the education file, with Education Minister Rima Karami presenting updates on the tenure process at the Lebanese University.
On the financial front, Finance Minister Yassin Jaber presented a report he described as “encouraging,” noting that the ministry currently records a surplus in Lebanese pounds with no deficit observed. He added that, despite the International Monetary Fund’s calls for an additional budget surplus and new taxes, “the ministry is not pursuing such measures under the current conditions.”
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