Lebanese President Joseph Aoun Defends Framework Deal with Israel Amid Hezbollah Criticism

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun responded to Hezbollah's criticism of Lebanon's framework agreement with Israel, affirming that Lebanon independently decided to negotiate with Israel and would not allow any party to negotiate on its behalf. He acknowledged that this decision upset many, but stressed that Lebanon had tried war without success and thus chose diplomacy. Aoun accused Hezbollah of misrepresenting the agreement to distort its purpose and urged the group to either support the negotiations or propose an alternative, emphasizing that no other option exists.

Aoun highlighted Lebanon's heavy toll from past conflicts with Israel, noting over 4,000 casualties, 97% of whom were Shiite, and questioned why their right to live was denied. He also pointed out the dire humanitarian situation, with up to 1.5 million people sleeping on the streets, underscoring the urgency for a resolution. The president called on Hezbollah to participate constructively in the talks by presenting their positions and concerns rather than merely criticizing and distorting the process.

Addressing fears of civil war, Aoun stated that while political disagreement is a sacred right, inciting street unrest is unacceptable. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to completing the agreement, not for personal or political gain but for the benefit of Lebanon and its people, insisting that this opportunity must not be missed.