Joseph Aoun said Monday that securing a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory remains a top national priority. He stressed that ongoing negotiations aim to protect Lebanon’s sovereignty rather than offer concessions. His remarks came as Lebanon marked Resistance and Liberation Day commemorating Israel’s 2000 withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
In a statement carried by Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency, Aoun said the Lebanese government remains committed to achieving a complete Israeli pullout through negotiations. He described the effort as a sovereign national right supported by Lebanon’s military and security institutions. Aoun also emphasised that negotiations do not represent surrender or political compromise.
Read more: Israeli attacks in Lebanon kill at least 7 despite supposed ceasefire
Beirut and Israel have held three rounds of direct talks since mid-April under United States mediation. The discussions seek to establish a lasting peace arrangement following months of escalating conflict involving Hezbollah. Diplomatic efforts have continued despite repeated violence along the southern Lebanese border.
Although a ceasefire took effect on April 17 and later extended into early July, Israeli military operations have continued in southern Lebanon. Lebanese officials said the ongoing conflict caused widespread destruction and humanitarian suffering across affected areas. Thousands of families remain displaced due to continuing bombardments and instability.
Read more: Israeli strike in south Lebanon kills seven amid tensions
According to Lebanese authorities, more than 3,100 people have been killed and over 9,500 injured since March 2. Officials also reported that nearly 1.6 million people were displaced during the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah. International mediators continue efforts to prevent further escalation in the region.