Beirut, Lebanon – Lebanese President Joseph Aoun affirmed that the framework agreement with Israel is “the best possible” at the present stage, noting that it has begun to be implemented. In a statement issued by the Lebanese Presidency, Aoun explained during his meeting with a delegation from the Orthodox Gathering that the US administration “has begun listening to Beirut.” He also indicated that the Lebanese issue is receiving direct attention from the US President.
Dialogue under the roof of the national interest
Aoun stressed that the state would not compromise on Lebanon’s sovereign rights, asserting that “the right to disagree is legitimate, but disagreement must remain within the bounds of national interest and far removed from personal interests.” He also warned that “hatred does not build institutions, but rather destroys them.” He called on all Lebanese parties to unite to protect the nation from foreign ambitions.
Despite acknowledging the remaining obstacles, President Aoun expressed his strong hope for reaching a final agreement that would put an end to the ongoing bloodshed. This statement comes as a US State Department official reported that the talks underway in Rome between the Lebanese and Israeli sides were “productive.” They are expected to resume today, Wednesday.
The “framework formula” approach and the reality on the ground
These diplomatic moves come after five rounds of negotiations in Washington that culminated in the signing of a “framework agreement” on June 26. The agreement stipulates a phased Israeli withdrawal from occupied Lebanese territory, beginning with a pilot program in two areas. It links the withdrawal to the Lebanese army assuming full security responsibility. The agreement also includes the disarmament of armed groups in the areas from which Israeli forces withdraw.
This comes amidst the ongoing Israeli aggression, which began on March 2, 2016, and has resulted in a tragic death toll of 4,324 martyrs and 12,221 wounded, in addition to the displacement of more than one million people, according to data from the Lebanese Ministry of Health. Israel continues its incursion, penetrating more than 10 kilometers into Lebanese territory. This occurs while Israel refuses to withdraw from the occupied territories or to implement UN resolutions concerning Palestinian rights and Syrian sovereignty. Therefore, the path to peace now hinges on a genuine commitment to these signed agreements.
