President Aoun: We will continue diplomatic efforts to save what remains of Lebanon

Lebanon’s President Joseph Aoun said the Lebanese state had focused on preserving civil peace amid war conditions that were beyond its control.

Speaking from Bkerki, he stressed that anyone attempting to undermine civil peace would be serving Israel, adding that there are no fears of internal strife.

He said: “To those who want sedition, I say that circumstances have changed and responsibility for preserving civil peace is shared. Some media figures are playing a destructive role, so tone down your sectarian rhetoric.”

He also addressed residents in southern Lebanon, saying: “We salute your resilience. We have not forgotten you. We are doing what is necessary to secure the basic necessities of life and are making the required contacts for your sake.”

Aoun added that the state is doing everything it can to preserve the dignity of displaced people, thanking everyone who has helped, both inside and outside Lebanon, especially Lebanese citizens who hosted displaced families.

He also expressed regret over criticism directed at the Lebanese Army, saying: “I ask those who attack the army: what have you done for the army? The army is doing its job, and without it you would not be in your homes. It does not work according to agendas but according to national interest.”

He added: “To those who ask what diplomacy and negotiations bring us, I ask: what has your war brought us? Some wanted to drag Lebanon into wars that have nothing to do with it, but we will continue our contacts to save what remains of our people and our homes.”