In a decisive stance from Baabda Palace, the President of the Republic, Joseph Aoun, stressed that “there is no turning back from the path of negotiations because we have no other choice,” stressing that the primary goals of any negotiating path are Israel’s withdrawal from the occupied Lebanese territories and the return of the prisoners.
Aoun’s words came during his meeting with MP Strida Geagea with a delegation from the “Strong Republic” bloc, where he stressed that “all the negative atmosphere created around strife in Lebanon has no roots,” calling for strengthening national unity and rallying around the army and security institutions.
He pointed out that the meetings held in Washington under American sponsorship constitute an “important achievement for Lebanon,” in light of the personal interest of US President Donald Trump, considering that it is an opportunity that must be taken advantage of. He also pointed out that Lebanon is ready to accelerate the pace of negotiations in line with American efforts, stressing that the current path is in the interest of all Lebanese.
Regarding the possibility of holding a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Aoun explained that “the timing is not appropriate now,” stressing the necessity of first reaching a security agreement and stopping the attacks before discussing any political meeting.
On the internal level, the President of the Republic confirmed that communication is ongoing with Speaker of Parliament Nabih Berri and has not been interrupted, noting that Berri “feels like any Lebanese the pain and sadness of what Lebanon is witnessing,” especially in light of the human and material losses.
Aoun also discussed the security situation with Army Commander Rudolph Heikal, where developments in the country were presented, especially in the south, in addition to the tasks carried out by the army in various regions to maintain security and stability.
For her part, Representative Geagea affirmed the “Strong Republic” bloc’s support for the positions of the President of the Republic, considering that the negotiations aim to achieve Israeli withdrawal and complete state sovereignty, stressing her full support for the path to ending the war and building an independent and stable state.
