Lebanese President Michel Aoun has asserted that the core conflict in Lebanon today lies between the majority of Lebanese who wish to build a state and a minority who want to control it. He emphasized his commitment to rebuilding the state at any cost and clarified that negotiating with Israel is not an act of surrender or concession but a tactful means to reclaim land and achieve Lebanese objectives peacefully.
Aoun expressed his stance during a meeting at the Presidential Palace with a delegation from the Maronite Foundation in the World, led by Rose Shweiri. The discussions covered the progress of negotiations with Israel, the future of the state, the role of the Lebanese diaspora in economic support and investment, and the issue of restoring Lebanese citizenship.
The President assured, "Lebanon faces no threat as long as there are dedicated Lebanese like you in the diaspora who are creative and patriotic." Concerning negotiations with Israel, Aoun noted the progress achieved and the reduction of Israeli assaults after the signing of the framework, a development that has positively influenced the return of Lebanese expatriates for the summer.
Aoun reiterated that negotiation is not a sign of defeat but a continuation of efforts to liberate land through peaceful means rather than conflict. He declared firmly, "Ultimately, we will not allow Israel to remain on even a single inch of our territory, nor any of its soldiers to stay."
Discussing Lebanon's domestic scene, Aoun depicted the ongoing struggle as one between state-building aspirations and a faction attempting to obstruct state restoration. The President's aim, despite opposition, is to rebuild the state foundation.
He addressed administrative corruption affecting diaspora investments, stating the judiciary's primary role in addressing this issue, with recent judicial appointments steering matters in the right direction despite delay due to longstanding corruption.
Shweiri reaffirmed the diaspora's support for building a strong, sovereign, and just state, crediting Aoun's leadership with reigniting hope among Lebanese internationally. The diaspora, she stated, is eager to invest and contribute to Lebanon's revival.
Aoun also received several political figures and discussed local and international political matters, including developing bilateral relations with Jordan, strengthening ties, and ongoing humanitarian efforts by the Lebanese Red Cross amid regional challenges. The President highlighted his intent to advance digital governance to streamline citizen transactions and combat corruption.