Red Cross transfers five detainees from 'Israel' to Lebanon
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The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) announced Friday that it facilitated the return of five individuals from 'Israel' to Lebanon over two days following formal requests from both sides.
According to a statement issued by the international organization, the repatriation process was completed in two separate phases, with four individuals transferred on Friday and one person transported on Thursday.
The ICRC reiterated that its participation in the cross-border operation was conducted under its strict mandate as an independent humanitarian entity.
"Our role in this operation is purely humanitarian, and we engaged as a neutral intermediary between 'Israel' and Lebanon," the Red Cross stated.
Neutral intermediary role
The ICRC regularly acts as a confidential channel for humanitarian arrangements between countries lacking formal diplomatic relations.
The organization did not provide additional details regarding the identities, status, or medical conditions of the five individuals, nor the specific border crossing points used to execute the transfers.
The repatriation follows established humanitarian protocols under which the Red Cross coordinates directly with military and civilian officials on both sides to ensure the safe passage of individuals across the border.
Aoun thanks US and ICRC efforts
Lebanese President Joseph Aoun issued a statement expressing gratitude to the international parties involved in negotiating and executing the release of the citizens.
Aoun commended diplomatic interventions and humanitarian channels that led to the return of the initial group of detainees held in 'Israel'.
"We thank the efforts of the United States and the International Red Cross for freeing the first batch of detainees in 'Israel'," President Aoun stated.
Looking forward, President Aoun reaffirmed Beirut's commitment to advancing the ongoing diplomatic process to secure additional releases and address territorial integrity.
"We emphasize completing the steps of the trilateral framework, leading to the full restoration of our sovereignty over our land," President Aoun added.
