Lebanese President Michel Aoun has emphasized the crucial role of the Lebanese army in ensuring national security along the borders and highlighted the necessity of pressuring Israel to withdraw from occupied Lebanese territories. Aoun stated that the ongoing occupation undermines the state's legitimacy and hinders the army's deployment, which is foundational for achieving lasting peace.
In a video call with the "American Task Force for Lebanon," President Aoun expressed gratitude for their continuous support for Lebanon's sovereignty and independence. He urged backing for the framework agreement reached with Israel under U.S. mediation, emphasizing Lebanese sovereignty and state authority over all territories. Aoun sought assistance from the group to counter negative voices in the U.S. regarding Lebanon.
President Aoun reviewed historical military confrontations between Lebanon and Israel since 1949, including the 1969 Cairo Agreement, and stressed the need for the Lebanese army's full border deployment. He stated that negotiations remain the only viable option after previous military actions failed to meet their objectives. The president asserted that Israeli withdrawal is vital for U.S. and Lebanese goals related to restoring Lebanon's sovereignty and institutional strength.
Aoun called on the U.S. administration to press for Israeli withdrawal, highlighting its significance for real progress towards peace and securing stability along Lebanon's southern borders. He commended the Lebanese army and security forces as key to southern stability and the return of displaced residents.
He clarified that legal claims between Israel and Lebanon are suspended only during negotiations, not abandoned. President Aoun concluded by affirming that Lebanon cannot return to civil war despite attempts to incite strife, recognizing the tragic legacy and collective awareness among Lebanese leaders.
Furthermore, President Aoun praised Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri's efforts to maintain calm and warn against sectarian strife. Berri supports a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, recalling his contributions to southern Lebanon’s reconstruction and prosperity.