- Tue April 21 2026 5:18 pm
President Joseph Aoun said he bears full responsibility for his decisions, stressing that diplomacy is a war without bloodshed, while war brings destruction, and reaffirming that negotiations do not mean surrender but aim to resolve conflict while preserving Lebanon’s rights.
His remarks came during a meeting at Baabda Palace with a delegation from Jezzine municipalities, MPs and local officials, who raised security, service and development concerns, including support for municipalities and ensuring stability.
Aoun highlighted the resilience of southern communities and solidarity with displaced citizens calling for coordination between the army, security forces and local authorities to maintain stability and avoid self-security practices.
Aoun stressed that negotiations seek to stop attacks, secure Israeli withdrawal and ensure the return of detainees, urging the Lebanese to stand by the state.
Aoun also met Culture Minister Ghassan Salame and former MP Boutros Harb, and received families of State Security martyrs, reaffirming the state’s support and commitment to ending the war.