President Joseph Aoun affirmed the Lebanese Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to national sovereignty during a visit to the south of the country. Speaking at the army headquarters in Tyre, on the occasion of Independence Day, Aoun stated that the military remains resolute in its defense of national dignity, sovereignty, and independence, dismissing what he called campaigns of disparagement and incitement.
“The army, which protects the Lebanese people, stands firm in its positions,” Aoun declared. He emphasized that the soldiers are not swayed by attempts to undermine their credibility or sow doubt.
The Lebanese Army Commander, General Rudolph Heikal, who accompanied the President, highlighted the significant efforts made by the armed forces to bolster their presence south of the Litani River since the cessation of hostilities agreement. However, he noted that ongoing Israeli violations impede these efforts. Heikal acknowledged the exceptional circumstances surrounding the deployment plan, emphasizing the need for utmost wisdom, firmness, and professionalism in serving national interests and maintaining civil peace, free from any other considerations.
Heikal described the current period as a critical juncture in Lebanon’s history, exacerbated by the Israeli occupation and continuous aggression, which prevents the complete deployment of the army. He stressed that the army is fully aware of the challenges and is working diligently to overcome them.
Meanwhile, Hezbollah issued a statement emphasizing the need to adhere to the elements of Lebanon’s strength and to safeguard national rights in the face of ongoing Israeli aggression and what it described as an American siege targeting the land, people, and resources of Lebanon. The group called for rejecting any form of external dictates and dependence, asserting that Lebanon’s independence can only be achieved through resistance and confrontation of any plots against the country and the region. Hezbollah urged all possible efforts to compel Israel to implement the ceasefire agreement and UN Resolution 1701, calling on guarantor states to exert pressure on Israel to halt its violations.
The statements from both President Aoun and Hezbollah underscore the complex security landscape in Lebanon and the ongoing challenges to its sovereignty.
