Lebanese President Joseph Aoun expressed optimism Thursday regarding the future of Lebanon, stating that the threat of war has been averted. His comments come as an Israeli strike targeted a vehicle in the Hermel region of southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties.
Following a meeting with Maronite Patriarch Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rahi, President Aoun conveyed his well wishes to the Lebanese people, stating, “God willing, next year we will witness the birth of a new Lebanon, a state of accountability… a state of institutions, not a state of parties and sects.” He emphasized the need for a state that prioritizes institutions over partisan interests.
Aoun acknowledged the ongoing challenges in the south, saying, “There is a wound bleeding in the south, and with the birth of the new Lebanon, we will end wars and live in peace.” He affirmed his commitment, along with Speaker Nabih Berri and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, to holding elections on schedule, emphasizing it as a constitutional obligation.
The President reassured the public that diplomatic efforts to avert war have been ongoing. “I tell you that the specter of war has been removed from Lebanon, and things will move towards positivity, God willing,” he stated.
Simultaneous with President Aoun’s statements, reports emerged of an Israeli drone strike targeting a vehicle in the Hermel district of eastern Lebanon. The strike resulted in casualties. According to local reports, the drone strike hit a vehicle on the Hosh al-Sayed Ali road in the Hermel district.
On the Israeli side, a military spokesperson claimed that the strike, conducted jointly by the Israeli army and the Shin Bet, targeted a “terrorist cell” in the al-Nasiriya area.
Earlier this week, a similar drone strike targeted a vehicle in the town of Janata in the Tyre district of southern Lebanon, causing injuries to a passerby.
The recent strike in Hermel represents a further escalation of tensions and a potential violation of existing ceasefire agreements.
