For their part, the relatives of abducted soldiers voiced their support to all efforts exerted by Arsal deputy mayor Ahmad Fliti, adding that Minister Mashnouq reported to them that the cabinet supports an exchange deal without any previously set conditions.
The relatives then headed to Tripoli to meet with Justice Minister Ashraf Rifi, who noted that “this major issue has lasted longer than expected,” stressing that the cabinet is deploying every possible effort in this regard.
He also praised the appointment of Arsal’s deputy Mayor Ahmad Fliti as a mediator in the negotiations, adding that he “enjoys a high level of credibility.”
In this context, sources told LBCI that Ahmad Fliti delivered a message from the Islamic State to the concerned parties of the Lebanese government, and he is waiting their reply. For more details, watch Edmond Sassine's full report in the video above