Lebanese President Joseph Aoun on Saturday called on Israel to withdraw from occupied strategic hills and release Lebanese prisoners, saying these steps were essential for stability along the southern border.

Speaking during talks with visiting U.S. Congressman Ronny Jackson, Aoun said the Lebanese army was ready to secure the entire border in coordination with UN peacekeepers under Resolution 1701, accusing Israel of breaching a November 27 agreement by maintaining positions in disputed areas.

"The Lebanese army is fully capable of enforcing agreements and securing the border alongside UNIFIL forces," Aoun said, referring to the UN Interim Force in Lebanon.

Jackson, speaking to reporters after the meeting, pledged U.S. mediation efforts between Lebanon and Israel to resolve the border dispute.

"Our objective is a fully demarcated and secure border where both sides can coexist peacefully," the U.S. lawmaker said.

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