Aoun Condemns Israeli Strikes as IAEA Seeks Iran Access

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned repeated Israeli attacks that killed civilians and destroyed homes in southern Lebanon. He stated these actions undermine regional de-escalation efforts while supporting the renewal of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon mandate.

The president highlighted the killing of innocent civilians, including children and women, during recent operations. He emphasized that such destruction hampers stability across the region. His remarks come as Lebanon works closely with France to facilitate the extension of the peacekeeping mission.

Aoun also welcomed a French and Italian initiative to form a European force. This proposed force would fill any void left after the potential withdrawal of the current United Nations mission. The move signals strong European interest in maintaining security along the Lebanese border.

Meanwhile, International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi stated that restoring access to key Iranian facilities could have very positive repercussions for Tehran. His comments arrived as major powers prepare to seek a resolution referring Iran to the UN Security Council.

The agency has been unable to access several key nuclear sites since a conflict in June 2025. Strikes on nuclear facilities occurred during that twelve-day conflict and the latest war beginning in February. Grossi urged serious dialogue to assess nuclear activities and resolve outstanding issues effectively.

Before the strikes, Iran held significant stocks of highly enriched uranium well above legal limits. The fate of this stockpile remains uncertain today. Grossi described the lack of contact as regrettable but affirmed that engagement would continue regardless of the upcoming vote outcome.