Beirut – Lebanese President Joseph aoun affirmed Lebanon‘s desire to avoid war with Israel, a statement delivered to a United Nations Security Council delegation amid ongoing cross-border tensions. The declaration comes shortly after civilian representatives from Lebanon adn Israel held their first talks in decades, signaling a potential, though fragile, diplomatic opening.
Despite a ceasefire intended to end over a year of hostilities between israel and Hezbollah in November 2024, attacks continue, and Israeli forces maintain a presence in five strategic areas of southern Lebanon. Aoun’s remarks underscore Lebanon’s commitment to a peaceful resolution, even as Hezbollah, which refuses to disarm, views the civilian-led negotiations with skepticism.
According to a presidential statement, Aoun told the UN envoys, “Lebanon does not want another war, the Lebanese people have suffered enough and there will be no turning back.” He urged international support for the Lebanese army’s efforts to disarm non-state groups, with a goal of completing the first phase of a government-approved plan by year-end.
Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem supported Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts but labeled the involvement of civilian representatives in talks with Israel a “misstep.”
Aoun emphasized the Lebanese army’s crucial role, stating, “The Lebanese army will play its full role… The international community must support and help it.” He reiterated that the decision to pursue disarmament was firm, “even if it takes time, becuase the Lebanese people are tired of military confrontation.”
(azh/azh)