Mikati Discusses Prison Conditions and Agricultural Damages with Ministers at Grand Serail

Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati met this morning at the Grand Serail with Interior and Municipalities Minister Judge Bassam Mawlawi and Justice Minister Henry Khoury to discuss prison-related issues.

Mikati ordered the prompt appointment of a judge from the Public Prosecution, an officer from the Internal Security Forces, and a representative from the Red Cross to inspect prisons and monitor necessary actions until Parliament decides on the proposed general amnesty.

After the meeting, Justice Minister Khoury said, "The discussion focused on the conditions of detainees and prisons in Lebanon, as well as the issue of detainees in Syria. Specific measures will be implemented in this regard."

Regarding detainees awaiting trial, Khoury mentioned, "This issue is being carefully reviewed, and we hope for its resolution."

Mikati also met with Agriculture Minister Abbas Al-Hajj Hassan, who updated him on the final preparations for a survey to assess agricultural damage caused by Israeli attacks during the recent aggression.

Hajj Hassan explained that this survey would be conducted in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Food Programme (WFP). It will cover all Lebanese regions and villages, addressing various sectors, including plant and animal agriculture.

The Prime Minister was also informed about the distribution mechanism for wheat seeds, which was carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Chambers of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture in Zahle and Tripoli.

Hajj Hassan further explained, "Another part of the distribution is being carried out in partnership with CIHEAM Bari, in line with our earlier discussions on localizing soft wheat production and ensuring sustainable food security, a major concern for all countries in the region."

He added, "I also briefed the Prime Minister on ongoing initiatives by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with international organizations. His Excellency emphasized the importance of strengthening such partnerships and building internal, regional, and international trust, which will be a key focus in the next phase."