Lebanese President Defends Decision to Negotiate with Israel to End Occupation

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun explained his decision to engage in negotiations with Israel during a recent meeting. He stated that he chose to pursue talks because he could not stand by while Lebanon was being driven toward disaster to serve the interests of another country. Aoun emphasized that he felt compelled to take action to halt Israel's war machinery, reduce the loss of lives and destruction of villages, and ultimately end the occupation.

He added that this move has the support of the majority of Lebanese citizens, including the Shiite community, which has borne the heaviest toll in the southern conflicts. The president framed the negotiations as a necessary step to protect Lebanon's sovereignty and prevent further suffering among its people.