Full Israeli Pullout Still Lebanon’s Top Goal, Says President Aoun

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Beirut: Joseph Aoun, the president of Lebanon, stated on Monday that securing a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory continues to be the primary national objective. He emphasised that the current negotiations are focused on restoring Lebanon's sovereignty rather than making concessions.

On Resistance and Liberation Day, which honours Israel's 2000 withdrawal from southern Lebanon, Aoun stated that the Lebanese government is working strategically to complete its withdrawal from areas that Israel currently holds. He underlined that talks are a sovereign right and are meant to use state institutions to protect Lebanese territories.

His comments coincide with ongoing talks between Israel and Lebanon that are being mediated by the United States. According to Lebanese sources, Israeli military operations have remained in multiple regions of southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire that went into force in April and continues to be prolonged.

Aoun continues to insist that the deployment of the Lebanese army along the border, an Israeli withdrawal, and an ongoing ceasefire are essential components of any future deal. Additionally, he has denied claims that talks amount to surrender, stating that they are meant to protect Lebanon's territorial integrity and national interests.