Russia FM calls for constructive solution to Israel’s presence in Lebanon, Syria

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov yesterday called for a “constructive solution” to the Israeli presence in southern Lebanon and Syria, which does not “compromise” the security of any party.

Speaking at a joint press conference with the Emir of Qatar, Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, in Doha, the Russian diplomat added that “just as the [Israeli occupation forces] decided to linger in southern Lebanon, they have now entered southern Syria which gives rise to a new situation.”

He stressed the need to develop constructive steps that take into account the security and development interests of all countries in the region without exception, “including, by all means, Israel”.

“However, security and development issues must not be resolved at the expense of other countries’ security and development,” he added.

Lavrov added that his country is deeply concerned that the Israeli army takes more steps every day that are not provided for in the agreements with Hamas and Lebanon.

“These steps create situations on the ground that are at odds with the existing agreements and UN Security Council resolutions on Palestinian affairs and the Lebanese issue,” he added.

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