Bahrain supports Joseph Aoun and rejects any foreign interference in Lebanon

One day after President Joseph Aoun sharply criticized Iran, Hezbollah's main backer, accusing it of using Lebanon as a ‘’bargaining chip’’ in its standoff with Washington, Bahrain on Saturday voiced its support for the Lebanese head of state, stressing its rejection of ‘’instrumentalizing Lebanon in regional conflicts’’ and of ‘’any foreign interference in its internal affairs.’’

In a statement, Bahrain's Foreign Ministry reaffirmed ‘’the kingdom's firm and consistent support for Lebanon's sovereignty, security, stability and territorial integrity’’ and rejected ‘’any foreign interference in its internal affairs.’’

The ministry also reiterated its support for the efforts of Joseph Aoun and his government to strengthen state institutions, extend their authority across the entire Lebanese territory and ensure that arms remain exclusively in the hands of the state, in accordance with the Taif Agreement, U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701 and other relevant international resolutions.

Manama underscored ‘’the need to respect Lebanon's sovereignty, independence and free national decision-making,’’ while supporting ‘’inclusive national dialogue’’ as the sole path toward resolving internal disputes.

It also stressed its rejection of ‘’instrumentalizing Lebanon in regional conflicts’’ in order to promote ‘’security, stability and peaceful coexistence in the region and spare its peoples the dangers of escalating conflicts.’’

The ministry further praised mediation efforts led by the United States under President Donald Trump to secure a permanent cease-fire in Lebanon, as well as the commitment of the Lebanese presidency and government to the success of negotiations and diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending hostilities, protecting civilians and facilitating the return of displaced people.

Finally, Bahrain called for increased international and regional efforts to provide emergency humanitarian assistance to Lebanon, support UNIFIL and alleviate civilian suffering. It also expressed hope for the success of Lebanon's reform efforts, the strengthening of its national unity and the full restoration of its role within the Arab world and the international community.

Israel and Lebanon agreed Wednesday on the ‘’implementation of a cease-fire’’ and the establishment of ‘’pilot zones’’ under Lebanese Army control following two days of talks in Washington. South Lebanon nevertheless remains under Israeli fire, while the Israeli army continues to occupy more than 600 square kilometers of Lebanese territory.

Since March 2, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed more than 3,550 people.