Lebanese President: We have no choice but to negotiate, and we seek a non-aggression pact with Israel

Lebanese President General Joseph Aoun announced his full readiness to continue the negotiation process with Israel under the auspices of the United States of America, considering this path to be the only available option to end the conflict. Aoun indicated that he seeks to leverage international and American desire to put an end to military operations and achieve sustainable stability on the borders.

The Lebanese President revealed that tangible progress has been made in the past few days through what he described as arduous negotiations, which led to initial understandings for a ceasefire. This significant breakthrough includes the withdrawal of Hezbollah elements to the north of the Litani River area, as a fundamental step to de-escalate the tense field situation.

Aoun explained that diplomatic efforts are currently focused on drafting a security agreement or a non-aggression treaty that guarantees the safety of both parties, without entering into comprehensive peace negotiations at this time. He affirmed that Lebanon remains committed to the provisions of the Arab Peace Initiative approved at the Beirut Summit in 2002 as a strategic framework for a final solution.

The Lebanese President stressed that the transition from a state of war to peace requires gradual and deliberate steps, starting with ending direct hostilities and establishing security on the borders. He also noted that he does not see the possibility of a direct meeting with the Israeli Prime Minister under current circumstances, preferring indirect diplomatic channels.

Regarding constitutional powers, Aoun affirmed that managing the negotiation file falls within the responsibilities of the President of the Republic according to Article 52 of the Lebanese Constitution. He explained that this move is being carried out in close coordination with the Prime Minister's office and the Speaker of Parliament to ensure a unified national stance aimed at protecting Lebanon's supreme interests.

Aoun touched upon the role of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, describing him as a statesman who seeks to end the war through peaceful and diplomatic means. He indicated that Berri is making great efforts to persuade the concerned parties of the necessity of prioritizing the state's interest, while taking into account the delicate political and sectarian sensitivities in the country.

The Lebanese President warned against being drawn into an internal military confrontation with Hezbollah, stressing that dialogue is the only way to address the issue of weapons. He explained that there are efforts to convince all parties that handing over weapons to the state is the real guarantee for the security of the Shiite community and all Lebanese components alike.

In a message addressed to Israeli society, Aoun questioned the futility of continuing wars that have not ended since 1948 without achieving real security. He called on the Israeli side to sit at the dialogue table and prioritize the language of logic, stressing that excessive military force has not and will not provide security for the residents of the northern regions.

Aoun demanded that the Israeli government show a genuine desire to end the conflict and adhere to international agreements, indicating that the Lebanese side is ready and willing to achieve stability. He warned that the absence of political will on the other side would mean the continuation of the cycle of violence from which no one on either side of the border would be safe.

Regarding the relationship with Tehran, the Lebanese President affirmed his country's aspiration to build balanced relations with Iran based on the principle of mutual respect for national sovereignty. He stressed that Lebanon is a sovereign state with legitimate institutions, and any external communication must pass through official channels and without interference in internal affairs.

Aoun sharply criticized interventions that serve regional interests at the expense of Lebanese blood and the destruction of their homes, stressing that the Lebanese people ultimately pay the price. He called on regional powers to realize that Lebanon can no longer tolerate being an arena for settling scores or serving external agendas.

The Lebanese President concluded his speech by affirming his rejection of calls for division or federalism, stressing that the state's duty is to preserve the unity of the national territory. He indicated that Lebanon's history and its pluralistic nature cannot be changed, and that the only solution lies in strengthening state institutions and extending its authority over all Lebanese territories.

It is time for the power of logic to prevail over the logic of force; military solutions will not provide you with safety and security.