Lebanon Chose Talks With Israel to Save Nation, Says President Aoun

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated on Tuesday that the country opted for negotiations with Israel, believing that "the continuation of war will not lead to a result." He explained that the goal of these negotiations is to end the state of hostility, secure the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanese territory, facilitate the return of displaced persons, release prisoners, and enable reconstruction.

Aoun made these remarks while receiving a delegation from the "Old Boys Association of La Salle School" at the Baabda Palace in Beirut, according to a statement from the Lebanese presidency. He acknowledged that the agreement reached is "not ideal" but has "limited the expansion of Israeli aggressions." Despite ongoing Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon, Aoun affirmed that authorities are working to curb them and ultimately end the hostility with Israel. "We made the decision to save what remains of Lebanon," he said, questioning whether continued war and Israeli freedom of movement were preferable to taking action to "avoid disasters for the country."

He characterized war outcomes as either a decisive victory for one side or negotiation, deeming the latter more suitable for preventing further damage to Lebanon. Aoun emphasized that the "son of the South is tired and only wants to live in peace," asserting that his decision to negotiate stems from his responsibility. He noted increased US attention to the Lebanese file, but stressed that progress is incremental, with Lebanon moving "step by step" toward its objectives, including Israeli withdrawal, the return of the displaced, prisoner release, and reconstruction.

Economically, Aoun reported that Lebanon achieved approximately 4% growth last year, with an increase in Banque du Liban's assets and a balance of payments surplus. He attributed the current economic downturn, despite earlier positive forecasts, to the war, regional developments, and "traders' greed," while affirming the state's responsibility to alleviate citizen suffering. He also highlighted ongoing government reforms, stating that "forty years of corruption, mismanagement, and lack of administrative competence cannot end overnight," but expressed confidence that the country is now on the "right track."

In security matters, Aoun distinguished between southern Lebanon and internal security, noting low crime rates and continued tourism. He praised security agencies' efforts against terrorism and drugs, and highlighted the positive development of Beirut and Tripoli ports joining the "India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor" club, a platform for cooperation among ports involved in the corridor. He also mentioned the US lifting of flight restrictions between Lebanon and the US since 1985, viewing these and other developments as positive indicators for Lebanon's future.