BEIRUT: On Friday, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun announced that Lebanon is entering a “new phase” of lasting agreements following a 10-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
In a firm address to the nation, Aoun emphasized that Lebanon is no longer a battleground for outside conflicts. His comments came shortly after US President Donald Trump declared the truce, signaling a turning point for the nation.
Lebanon became entangled in the regional tensions on March 2 when Hezbollah launched an attack on Israel in response to the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
“We stand on the brink of a new chapter,” Aoun stated, marking his first public speech since the ceasefire began. He underscored the importance of moving from temporary ceasefires to permanent agreements that honor the rights of the Lebanese people and uphold the country’s unity and sovereignty.
Aoun also expressed pride in the Lebanese government, declaring that it has regained control over its decision-making power for the first time in nearly 50 years. “We are negotiating on our own terms now. We will no longer be a pawn in other people’s conflicts,” he declared.
He thanked those who helped secure the ceasefire, specifically acknowledgments for Trump and Saudi Arabia. Trump had shared the news of the ceasefire on his Truth Social platform and mentioned that he expected both Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit the White House soon.
This ceasefire followed a historic meeting in Washington between the Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors—the first of its kind in decades, as the two countries have technically been in conflict since 1948.
Aoun reassured his fellow citizens that engaging in direct talks with Israel does not indicate weakness or compromise on national principles. “Negotiations do not mean relinquishing our rights or undermining our sovereignty,” he stated firmly.
He also conveyed that no agreement would undermine Lebanon’s national rights or the dignity of its people, emphasizing a strong commitment to the nation’s integrity.
