Lebanese President Joseph Aoun said, “Negotiations will never come at the expense of Lebanon’s rights, principles or sovereignty”, adding, “They reflect strength rather than weakness”.
In an address to the nation, Aoun noted the ongoing negotiations are “not a sign of weakness, retreat or concession,” but rather “a decision rooted in confidence in Lebanon’s rights and a commitment to protect its people”.
According to Aoun Lebanon has “regained its sovereignty and decision-making power for the first time in nearly half a century”, declaring that the country is no longer “a card in anyone’s pocket or a battlefield for others’ wars.”
The president credited the recently announced ceasefire to collective efforts and sacrifices by the Lebanese people, including those who remained steadfast in their homes and those who supported displaced residents.
He said Lebanon now stands at the beginning of a new phase, shifting from efforts to secure a ceasefire toward “negotiating lasting agreements that safeguard the rights of our people, the unity of our land and the sovereignty of our state.”