The Presidency of the Republic distributed a speech by President Joseph Aoun on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of the disappearance of Imam Musa Sadr and his companions, Sheikh Mohamad Yaaqoub and journalist Abbas Badreddine, which falls tomorrow, August 31. Aoun stated, "Every year, Lebanon remembers and honors the memory of Imam Sadr, whose thoughts, mission, and project cannot be erased, and salutes his companions who shared his fate."
He added, "Forty-eight years after the disappearance of Imam Sadr, his case remains a national and humanitarian concern. We, as a state and its institutions, continue to seek full disclosure about his fate and that of his companions. This remains Lebanon's right to know the complete truth, and we will persist in pursuing this case bilaterally and internationally, using all diplomatic and legal means available, in honor of a trust that does not fade over time."
Aoun further remarked, "Imam Sadr was not just a traditional religious leader but a pioneer of statehood and a unifying national figure who believed in a united Lebanon and rejected sectarian division as a tool for discord. From the south, which he loved and chose as a platform for his voice, the Imam made key stands to protect its dignity and land, advocating for the Lebanese state to assume full responsibility for protecting the south, emphasizing that only state arms can protect the land."
He continued, "Today, as we recall these positions, we are reminded of the ongoing Israeli aggressions against our southern region and the sacrifices and resilience of our people there. Lebanon reaffirms its commitment to the exclusive legality of state-held arms and extending the Lebanese Army's authority across all Lebanese territories, in line with resolution 1701, ensuring Lebanon's sovereignty as Imam Sadr aspired for a state that protects its people and does not leave its south isolated in facing danger."
He concluded, "As we remember Imam Sadr and his companions on this day, we renew our commitment to the belief in national unity, a strong just state, and a south protected by its army and security forces. May our martyrs rest in peace, patience to our southern people, and a near deliverance for the families of Imam Sadr and his companions."