Lebanese President: No Retreat from Decision to Negotiate to Restore Lebanon's Rights and Safeguard Its Sovereignty
Beirut, July 10 (KUNA) -- Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed on Friday that he would not back down from his decision to hold negotiations with the Israeli occupation forces under U.S. sponsorship, stressing the importance of clarifying his positions to the Lebanese public and the steps he is taking along this path.
The Lebanese Presidency said in a statement, quoting President Aoun, that during a meeting with Lebanese Army Commander Major General Rodolphe Heikel and representatives of political parties, he reiterated that he would not retract his decision to negotiate, insisting that all his positions include explanations to the Lebanese people regarding the importance of the path he is pursuing and Lebanon’s commitment to its sovereignty in every step taken.
He added that criticisms regarding direct negotiations with the Israeli occupation “do not warrant a response, as Lebanon has entered direct negotiations with Israel on more than one occasion since 1949.” He emphasized that he is fulfilling his duty “out of conviction, with no personal interests at stake.”
Aoun explained that “the option of negotiations affirms the sovereignty of the Lebanese state and its right to negotiate on its own behalf, and removes it from the consequences of the war imposed upon it,” noting that he has made a “difficult choice and embarked on an uncharted path due to the regional balance of power.”
The Lebanese president clarified that the “framework formula” would restore Lebanon’s rights through diplomatic means, provided Israel adheres to its provisions and successfully implements them. He added, “We currently have an opportunity to regain the losses we suffered through a senseless war, especially given the current U.S. momentum in focusing on Lebanon and its ability to pressure Israel.”
It is worth noting that the Lebanese state last month reached an agreement on what is known as the “framework agreement” following rounds of direct negotiations with the Israeli occupation forces, sponsored by the United States in Washington. The aim was to achieve a complete Israeli withdrawal, halt its ongoing attacks on Lebanon, and initiate a reconstruction process while extending the authority of the state and the army over all southern territories. (End) F.Z. / M.A. K.
