BEIRUT: Lebanese President Joseph Aoun has reiterated that a complete Israeli withdrawal from southern Lebanon remains a “firm national priority”, as the country marked Resistance and Liberation Day, commemorating the end of Israel’s 22-year occupation of southern Lebanon in 2000.
In a statement issued on the occasion, President Aoun reflected on the significance of the annual observance, which celebrates Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanese territory following a prolonged occupation that lasted from 1978 until 2000.
He noted that this year’s commemoration comes at a time when Israeli forces continue to maintain positions in parts of southern Lebanon, alongside ongoing military strikes and security incidents in the region.
The Lebanese president emphasised that the “path to a complete Israeli withdrawal remains a steadfast national demand”, adding that the Lebanese state is pursuing this objective through diplomatic and negotiated means.
He stressed that such negotiations should not be interpreted as concessions or surrender, but rather as a reaffirmation of Lebanon’s sovereign rights. According to his statement, Lebanon remains committed to asserting its exclusive authority over its territory through its national institutions, particularly the Lebanese Armed Forces and legitimate security agencies.
Aoun further underlined that safeguarding Lebanon’s land and sovereignty is a central responsibility of the state, and that efforts to extend full governmental authority across all regions remain ongoing despite current security challenges in the south.
The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and continued concern in Lebanon over cross-border incidents and the broader security situation along the southern frontier.
