Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has said direct negotiations with Israel are “the only remaining path to achieving a lasting peace,” as he pledged to continue efforts to end the war.
Speaking during a meeting at the presidential palace in Baabda with a delegation from southern towns on Tuesday, Aoun said: “When the south suffers, all of Lebanon is affected. It is time for the south, and all of Lebanon, to find relief.”
He said he remains committed to ending the Israeli war and ensuring that peace is “lasting, not temporary.”
“I stand with our people in the south and appreciate their resilience despite the difficult conditions and their attachment to their land and property,” he added.
Aoun said his efforts are aimed at serving all Lebanese, stressing that “the path of direct negotiations (with Israel) is the only one left after other options, including war, have been exhausted.”
He also urged the Lebanese army to fully resume its role in the south, saying it should be the sole authority responsible for security there.
“Everyone must rally around the army and security forces; otherwise, the loss will affect all,” he said.
Aoun described civil peace as a “red line,” warning that any actions undermining it would ultimately benefit Israel.
