Yilmaz meets Lebanese deputy PM, warns of Israeli expansionism

Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz received Lebanese Deputy Prime Minister Tarek Mitri and his accompanying delegation in Ankara on Wednesday for wide-ranging discussions on regional security challenges. The talks focused on bilateral cooperation frameworks as Israeli military operations in Lebanon continued to threaten civilian populations.

The two officials examined recent regional developments including continued Israeli attacks on Lebanon and their severe impact on the humanitarian situation. "Strengthening regional solidarity against Israel's expansionist policies carries great importance," Yilmaz said on NSosyal, the Turkish social media platform. "Any attack on Lebanon's sovereignty, territorial integrity, or unity constitutes a clear violation of international law," he added, emphasizing Ankara's unwavering commitment to Lebanese stability.

Cooperation and aid

Yilmaz stated that Türkiye will continue supporting Lebanon's security, stability, and economic development. The officials prioritized expanding bilateral cooperation in economy, energy, and defense alongside promoting inclusive policies within Lebanon and supporting stabilization efforts in Syria. Humanitarian assistance delivered through the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), Türkiye's Disaster and Emergency Management Agency (AFAD), and the Turkish Red Crescent remains central to Ankara's aid strategy for Beirut.

Conflict toll

Israeli attacks in Lebanon continued this week in violation of a fragile ceasefire in effect since mid-April, occurring despite a memorandum of understanding between the US and Iran to end hostilities on all fronts including Lebanon. The offensive launched on March 2 has killed over 3,800 people and wounded more than 11,800, displacing over 1 million according to the latest official figures.