Aoun urges Lebanese to overcome sectarian divisions and unite behind the state

Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called on citizens today, Monday, to emerge from "sectarian, confessional, and partisan alleys" and unite behind the state, emphasizing that Lebanon has important opportunities that should be invested in by restoring trust both internally and externally.

Aoun stated in his speech: "Lebanon is facing many opportunities that we must wisely invest in by moving away from divisions towards one party, which is Lebanon, and one sect, which is the Lebanese sect, and rallying under one flag." He added that the state is the only entity capable of protecting all sects and preserving the homeland.

The Lebanese president pointed out that the Cabinet serves as a platform for discussion and decision-making, noting that the past period has witnessed unprecedented decisions.

Aoun's statements came at a time when the Lebanese arena is experiencing interactions related to the Israeli stance, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office issued a statement expressing Israel's appreciation for the Lebanese government's decision regarding the restriction of arms, confirming that the Israeli army may begin a gradual withdrawal from some areas within Lebanon if practical steps are taken to disarm "Hezbollah."

The statement clarified that any withdrawal would be coordinated with the United States, while Lebanon reiterated its commitment to the principle of "step for step," through halting Israeli assaults and the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the remaining five points within Lebanese territory.