Palestinian PM: Refugee Camps are Controlled by Lebanese State

Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah stressed on Thursday that the Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon are under the control of the Lebanese state, pointing out that they are keen to safeguard security and stability in the country.

“Any violations that occur are individual and isn't linked to us,” Hamdallah said during a press conference with his Lebanese counterpart Najib Miqati at the Grand Serail.

“It's an honor for Lebanon to be defending the rights of the Palestinians,” the PM said.

Palestinians living in Arab countries — including the 450,000 in Lebanon — are descendants of the hundreds of thousands who fled or were driven from their homes in the war that followed Israel's creation in 1948. They remain in Lebanon's 12 refugee camps because Israel and the Palestinians have never reached a deal that would enable them to return to their homes that are now in Israel.

Concerning the nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, Hamdallah hailed the matter, considering that its a “precedent that should be used to achieve a fair and comprehensive solution.”

On Sunday a landmark deal was reached between Iran and world powers, which curb parts of Iran's nuclear program in return for some relief from international sanctions.

For his part, Miqati praised the nuclear deal, saying that it will have a positive impact on the region.

An official welcoming ceremony was held at the Grand Serail for the Palestinian PM.