President Aoun Asserts Lebanese Sovereignty, Debunks Southern Zones Amid Israeli Tensions
Baabda Palace, Lebanon – President Michel Aoun firmly dismissed notions of demilitarized or economic zones in South Lebanon, labeling such discussions as mere rhetoric. His statements came during a pivotal meeting with a delegation of civil society activists and local officials from the region, who urged governmental intervention to halt Israeli aggressions and support reconstruction efforts.
Affirming Sovereignty and National Priorities
During the Friday meeting, President Aoun underscored the government’s commitment to the stability and recovery of South Lebanon. “Reconstruction of the destroyed and damaged villages and towns of South Lebanon is a top priority to facilitate the return of residents to their properties and lands,” Aoun stated. He then directly addressed speculation regarding the future of the region, emphasizing, “All talk about empty or economic zones is purely rhetorical; no one has spoken to us about it.”
The delegation included prominent political figures such as MPs Ali Fayyad of the “Loyalty to the Resistance” bloc and Ashraf Baidoun of the “Development and Liberation” bloc, alongside heads of municipal unions and 26 mayors representing areas from Naqoura to Khiam. Their presence highlighted the widespread concern and unified call for action from the affected communities.
Commitment to Detainees and National Responsibility
In a separate but equally significant engagement, President Aoun met with the family of Ahmed Shukr, a retired Lebanese captain reportedly abducted by Israeli forces. The President affirmed that the case of Lebanese detainees and prisoners in Israel is a matter of daily governmental follow-up and remains on the agenda for committee mechanism negotiations.
Aoun revealed that security services have uncovered the circumstances surrounding Captain Shukr’s abduction, with investigations ongoing involving one individual detained for their alleged role in the operation. He reiterated his personal commitment to the cause, stating, “We had 23 prisoners, and today the number of our prisoners in Israel has reached 24. I am handling this file and take responsibility for it, as they are Lebanese citizens. I am addressing Ahmed Shukr’s case not as a military matter, but as that of a Lebanese citizen.”
Security Consultations and International Diplomacy
Further emphasizing the government’s proactive approach to national security, President Aoun held discussions with the Lebanese Army Commander, General Joseph Aoun. Their talks focused on the security situation in South Lebanon amidst recurrent Israeli attacks. The President also consulted with the Army Commander on preparations for his upcoming visit to Washington and scheduled meetings with a number of American officials, signaling Lebanon’s intent to engage internationally on these pressing issues.
