BEIRUT, July 31 (Xinhua) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said on Friday that Israel's massive explosions in southern Lebanon threaten the implementation of the framework agreement and risk undermining diplomatic negotiations ahead of a meeting in Rome to discuss its implementation.
"The timing of these attacks, on the eve of the session scheduled in Rome to continue discussions on implementing the trilateral framework, sends negative messages and undermines international efforts aimed at consolidating stability," Aoun said in a statement.
Powerful Israeli explosions shook the area surrounding Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon early Friday, causing damage to several homes. The resulting shockwaves were felt across large parts of southern Lebanon, according to Lebanon's state-run National News Agency.
The president condemned Israel's continued attacks in southern Lebanon, particularly explosions targeting infrastructure and cultural landmarks, including the UNESCO-listed Beaufort Castle, saying they have caused extensive damage, endangered civilians and threatened the security of villages across the south.
Aoun said the powerful explosions near the castle generated seismic waves equivalent to a 3.8-magnitude earthquake, citing Lebanon's National Center for Geophysics. He described the incident as a dangerous escalation, a blatant violation of existing commitments, and a direct threat to the framework agreement. ■
