President Aoun: Army redeployments secure Beirut and beyond, no tolerance for accusations against residents

President Joseph Aoun addressed a delegation from the Beirut Dialogue Forum led by MP Fouad Makhzoumi, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in maintaining security amid current challenges.

He stressed that preserving internal security requires full coordination between citizens, the army, security agencies, and municipalities. 

The president noted that the army has carried out redeployments in Beirut and several other areas, and will maintain a stronger presence alongside internal security forces to reassure citizens.

“Current security conditions are under control,” Aoun said, noting that isolated incidents are being addressed quickly. 

He warned against those seeking to exploit sectarian fears for personal interests, stressing that public awareness and political and religious leadership now make it impossible for anyone to incite internal strife.

Aoun also warned that anyone attempting to fuel sectarian tensions—whether through social media or media outlets—poses a greater threat to Lebanon than Israeli attacks. 

“We must distinguish between national interests and foreign agendas; our only solution is a strong state,” he said.

He affirmed that no citizen who remains in their village or hometown should be accused of disloyalty or collaboration.

On foreign policy, the president highlighted that his negotiation initiative has gained international support as the proper path toward a solution, citing Lebanon’s previous agreements with Israel, including the ceasefire and maritime border agreements. 

He added that communications focus on securing guarantees to protect the Masnaa border crossing, vital to both Lebanon and Syria.