Lebanese President Defends Framework Agreement Amid Internal Division and Regional Tensions

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun held a press conference at the presidential palace addressing internal opposition to the recently signed framework agreement with Israel. While attempting to justify the political moves and direct talks with Israel, Aoun emphasized that what was achieved is a "framework, not a final agreement." He stated, "I am not enamored with Israel, but give me an alternative solution I can work with, whatever it may be," underscoring his openness to any peace initiative that ends wars. Aoun also stressed Lebanon's firm rejection of any Israeli presence on its territory and urged giving the framework a chance before forming a definitive stance.

The president highlighted his commitment to Lebanon's constitution and sovereignty, rejecting ongoing conflicts on Lebanese soil and declaring, "The era of compromises is over; I act for all Lebanese without discrimination." Meanwhile, reports from Lebanon indicate a stalemate in implementing the framework agreement amid political tensions among the country's leadership. A senior source told the Lebanese newspaper Al-Diyar that the U.S. is continuing talks with Israeli officials to initiate "experimental withdrawals" approved under the framework. A trilateral committee involving Lebanon, the U.S., and Israel will be established to monitor the agreement's implementation.

Negotiations are currently paused pending the conclusion of mourning ceremonies for former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, with talks expected to resume afterward. The source predicted that the state of alertness and waiting will persist at least until after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington and meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Domestically, political tensions remain high, with no direct communication between President Aoun and Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri following disagreements over the framework. However, they maintain symbolic gestures of goodwill, with Berri emphasizing the need to preserve civil peace and oppose street protests, a stance praised by Aoun. Despite the discord, the top three government officials, Aoun, Berri, and Prime Minister Najib Mikati, agree on maintaining street control, general stability, and the continued participation of Shiite ministers from Amal and Hezbollah in the government to avoid destabilization.

Hezbollah and Amal reject the framework agreement, viewing it as a "stillborn" deal that legitimizes Israeli occupation and aims to dismantle resistance. Hezbollah MP Hassan Fadlallah criticized the agreement, claiming it grants Israel unachieved military goals and prevents holding Israel accountable for its actions. Supporters of Hezbollah continue to attack the Lebanese government amid these developments, reflecting the deep divisions over the framework and Lebanon's future direction.